Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/175

 the Abbess. "There are the poor and sick to be visited and comforted. Besides, we have schools connected with all our convents, where little children are instructed. I think all the activity that your heart could desire you would find here. Give the matter your prayerful consideration, my child," she said affectionately, as they returned below.

There was one person who regarded Katharine's leanings towards a conventual life with the keenest disapproval, and that was Madame La Tour. Having been informed that the property was secured to herself and daughter, she was anxious to depart. The seclusion and monotonous routine of the place had become inexpressibly tedious. She urged, entreated and commanded her daughter to break away from the snare which was being laid for her feet, and to use her reason and common sense. Katharine was completely under the influence of Monseigneur Ryder and the Lady Abbess. She saw the matter through their eyes. For the first time in her life she refused to obey her mother's commands.

Wearied at length by the controversy and harassed by ill-health, Madame La Tour determined to take her portion of the property and go to England. But before the day arrived for her departure she was dead. She had long been a sufferer from heart trouble, and the disappointments of her life hastened her end.