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 guilt suggested to him that she had probably been informed by Isabella of his purpose. He doubted whether her retirement to the convent did not import an intention of remaining there, until she could raise obstacles to their divorce; and the suspicions he had already entertained of Jerome, made him apprehend that the Friar would not only traverse his views, but might have inspired Hippolita with the resolution of taking sanctuary. Impatient to unravel this clue, and to defeat its success, Manfred hastened to the convent, and arrived there, as the Friar was earnestly exhorting the Princess never to yield to the divorce.

Madam, said Manfred, what business drew you hither? why did you not await my return from the Marquis? I came to implore a blessing on your councils: Replied Hippolita. My councils do not need a Friar's intervention: Said Manfred—and of all men living is that hoary traitor the only one whom you delight to confer with? Profane Prince! said Jerome; is