Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/233

 was now dressed in the long flowing black robe of the Order, and wore a white veil, which to-morrow would be replaced by one of sombre black, typifying her death to the world.

The generous wine was coursing through the Superior’s veins, and for the moment he was not guarded in his speech.

“Sweet Katharine,” he said, “how lovely you look to-day! By your serene expression I judge that life in the convent is thoroughly congenial to you.”

The novice stared in amazement at this unusual language from her stately and dignified confessor. The Superior realized instinctively that he had made a serious blunder. Collecting his scattered wits, he began again:

“My daughter, how do you feel in reference to the momentous step which you are about to take to-morrow?”

“Holy Father,” faltered the girl, “I have doubts and fears, and I think I am unfit for the conventual life. I have longings after the world and its pleasures. I do not know how to stifle these sinful desires.”

“You do not need to silence them, my little friend. They are not sinful, as you imagine, and the Church will not frown them down. The Church is not so ascetic as you have been taught. Far from it! She imposes secrecy upon her fol-