Page:Discipline in school and cloister (1902).djvu/108

 *ance. The crafty confidant that stood by, and who was instructed with the secret, took the hint and pressed her to send for the relics of that saint which, she said, were famous for their miraculous virtue and wonderful cures. The mistress, who seemed scarce able to speak, bid her do as she thought fit. Father Nicolo presently had notice, and obeyed the summons with the utmost expedition.

The priest arrived and followed his guide, entering the room where the afflicted lady lay, and drawing near to the bed with a becoming gravity. Agatha received him with profound reverence and begged the charity of his prayers. He exhorted her to prepare herself that she might be qualified to receive the benefit of the sacred relics and birch he had brought; in order to which, said he, it is first necessary that with a contrite heart you confess, that your soul being healed, your body may be more easily cured. The lady said she desired nothing more, and this was a signal to the others in the room to depart, which they did, leaving the lovers to their private devotions.

The good Father had not long applied the birch and other relics of St. Griffon for