Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/91

 though sensuous beauty which most of the old masters have given to that well known face. Paintings representing the beautiful women of the Bible hung upon the walls. There were Ruth, Esther, Miriam, Jephtha's daughter, and Mary Magdalene.

The critical eye of the priest surveyed these still representatives of a warm, passionate life with the keenest satisfaction. Just at this moment a clock on the cathedral chimed the hour of midnight. The music of that magnificent mass from the Stabat Mater, intoned by a choir of carefully trained voices, floated on the evening air. After the last harmonious chord had died away the Superior laid aside the heavy serge garment in which he was attired and assumed a loose flowing robe of the finest silk. Then a lay brother appeared, bearing on a silver tray a daintily prepared luncheon, served on the finest of linen and the rarest of china. The Jesuit partook of these viands with the relish of an epicure, and sipped his choice wine with a clear conscience. As a high dignitary of the Church, he had derived a perpetual indulgence from the Pope, and he was privileged to enjoy every pleasure which his rank afforded him, provided that the outward decorum of the Church was not violated.

Touching a bell, an attendant appeared to remove the tray.

“Send Father Steen to me!” said the Jesuit peremptorily.