Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/126

 “I should not be surprised if we were able to tolerate a few weeks here with some degree of pleasure,” said Madame, in relieved tones.

“I am in love with the convent already,” replied Katharine. “After having been driven before the storm far so many weary months, it is pleasant to find such a quiet haven. As for the Mother Superior, she is simply adorable.”

The lay sister, while apparently arranging the room, listened intently to the conversation of the guests.

Meanwhile Monseigneur Ryder and the Lady Abbess were again conversing in a private ante-room.

“What do you think of the ladies?” the Jesuit was saying.

“The mother can be easily disposed of. The daughter will require judicious management.”

“Such as my fair cousin knows well how to give,” replied Monseigneur.

“Katharine La Tour is a very attractive girl. She is generous, impulsive, affectionate. She reminds me of my own girlhood, with this exception: she has learned in the school of adversity how to restrain the wild impulses of the heart, while I gave the rein to my foolish fancies. But she has no business here, Julius, with that face. Let us understand each other. Are you fully determined on having her take the veil?”