Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/247

 Gretchen, who never turned a needy human being from her doors, hastened to unfasten the heavy cape from the slender shoulders. The coarse hood fell from the face and revealed the nun’s attire.

“A Sister!” said Gretchen, in amazement. “Why is she abroad at such an hour?”

Colonel Van Straalen gave one look at the beautiful face.

“It is Katharine La Tour!” he said to Conrad. “What are we to understand by this? She must have fled from the convent.”

“She is not yet a nun!” said Conrad, pointing to the white veil. “I imagine she has run away to escape taking her vows.”

“God grant it may be so,” replied his friend.

The young novice was laid upon a bed, and, under Gretchen’s skillful ministrations, she was able in a short time to sit up and relate her story to that good woman.

Hearing the sound of voices in the adjoining room, Katharine inquired if there were visitors in the house, and if her presence was known?

Gretchen gave an amused laugh. “My child,” she said, “set your fears at rest. The gentlemen whose voices you hear do me the honor of lodging in my humble tenement. I am told that they are friends of yours and their names are Colonel Van Straalen and Heer Conrad Chenoweth.”