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 spirituality, her charms of person and manner, without admiring such a lovely creature!”

“You are waxing eloquent, Julius,” said the lady, with curling lips. “And yet, cousin, do you not see that you are seeking to destroy in this admirable young person those very qualities of heart and mind which are her chief attraction? It almost rouses a conscience within me, to see the looks of love and reverence with which she regards both you and me,”

“Let us make an end of this fruitless discussion,” said Father Ryder, rising and trying vainly to suppress a yawn, “It is nearly my dinner hour, and I feel the need of refreshment. I will see my novice at four o’clock this afternoon, to prepare her for the ceremonies of the morrow.”

Monseigneur was feeling elated at the success of his schemes, and in consequence he allowed himself considerably more wine with his dinner than he was in the habit of taking. He became unusually genial and communicative. It was in this condition that he sought an interview with the prospective bride of Christ.

As the young novice entered the room at the summons of her confessor, Father Ryder was again impressed with the loveliness of her person, the charm of her exquisite grace. There was a conscious purity in her presence, which effectually shielded her even more than her novice’s garb. She