Page:Romance & Reality 3.pdf/211

Rh girl was a machine in her hands. She knelt, though supported by the arm of the Abbess, which she yet grasped; a black robe was thrown over her form—a black veil over her head; the nuns crowded round to greet their sister; and Emily, as the Abbess herself hung the rosary and crucifix round her neck, heard her clear, melodious, but determined tones, bless her by the new name of Sister Agatha. Pale, faint, they led her to a cell appointed to her use. That night it was within the convent that Emily heard the vesper hymn. On Lady Mandeville's return, her first inquiry was after Miss Arundel; and great was her surprise on hearing that she was absent, and had been absent all day. "But there's a note, my lady," said one of the servants. It contained these few words:— "I have turned from a world which has for me no attractions, and many sorrows. The calm of a religious life is surely fittest for her who has no tie, and no home. Forgive me, my dear kind friend; but what am I to you?—you have a husband, children, friends—you are happy. I entreat you, as a last favour, make no effort to disturb my retreat. I could not—