Empty Padding Between Line Numbers and 1st Column

[John E. Connerat]

I searched in the manual and am not sure what to look for other than "gutter." For my question, the gutter is preference is unchecked and not in play, so I see line numbers, vertical space, and then the first character of the first column of my text.

My issue is that that the amount of space between the line number and my first column looks to be about a "1/2-character wide" and several times a day, I don't think my text is flush left. I think that there is a leading space because of this padding.

Visually, it's nice not to have column 1 right next to the line numbers, but the space is too much. I'm using Menlo, size 14, at 100% magnification.

I've attached screen shots, but I can't recall if attachments are allowed on the digest.

When I change it to a ridiculous size (like 36 point), the buffer looks perfect. It's now about 1/16th of a character wide, so it's seems to be a fixed amount. I'd just like it smaller.

I do have the "line spacing" slider moved to the right a little bit, so I have some extra vertical space in case anyone tries to replicate this.

Here are two screen shots with annotations.

Does anyone know if this padding can be adjusted? It's not "the gutter."

Thanks!

-John