Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/236

 tissue of lies from beginning to end? If I had entertained thoughts of marriage, think you I would have entered a convent, or have wounded the heart of my noble friend and lover by rejecting his suit? Merciful God, save me from these pitfalls!”

This cry of anguish sobered the Superior. Realizing that he had gone too far, he sought to obliterate the unfortunate impression he had made.

“My daughter,” he said, in his accustomed dignified manner, “the test is over, and you have not faltered in your loyalty. Did you believe I could he in earnest? I sought but to prove your sincerity of purpose. You have passed the ordeal triumphantly. Now kneel!” he said authoritatively, “and make your last confession before assuming the veil.”

Katharine was powerless to resist the stern, imperious personality of the priest. She fully realized her dangerous position, She knew that if she would escape from this place the utmost discretion was necessary, in order that her confessor might not suspect her purpose. She therefore obeyed submissively the command of Monseigneur Ryder.

In conclusion, the Superior said, “I shall exact a penance, my daughter, for entertaining such rebellious feelings as you have described and for doubting the word of your confessor. You will remain before the altar in the chapel until midnight, reciting the prayers which I will mark in the bre-