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"There is a fragrance, there is a good smell, o'er all the vineyard," he came singing and leaping. "This is the springtime. Yes, I can tell; tender grapes abound." Then he stood beside her, delight in his eyes.
 
"Tovina," he spoke softly now. "I can see things which you cannot. I can see the beginnings of the pleasant grapes in you, and I know how to nurture them on. I measure the cut of the knife. I know when to quit. You must leave the pruning all up to me, whether it be quitting or cutting deeper. I know my branches and their tender grapes."

"Then one day will I surely be fruitful with the pleasant grapes?" asked Tovina.
           "Within the tiny acorn
           Lies the great oak tree.
"Just as sure as that are my promises to you," said he. "If you would spend more time thinking on my book of promises you would understand better my plans for you, plans of joy and not for hurt. In my book lie promises in exceeding abundance above all that you could ask or think. Furthermore, I myself will meet you there in my book.

"But Tovina, suppose I were lying to you about the way to the pleasant grapes. Oh, my beautiful Tovina, I love you. With an everlasting love have I formed you and connected you to my noble Vine. Will you not give me permission to do as I wish about the pleasant grapes, even to lying about their existence?"

Though the silence lengthened, yet he waited. "Yes," she answered, but only after searching all the way back to the cross at the place of her connection.

"Then remember this," he whispered,
           "Sometimes all I ask by the pruning
           Is that you persist the more
           In seeking TO THE VINE."