Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/92

 With a humble obeisance the lay brother departed to do his bidding.

In a few moments the gaunt form of Father Steen appeared in the doorway.

“I have an important mission to entrust to you,” said the Superior. “ Be prepared to start for Antwerp by daybreak.”

The priest bowed.

“You are to watch carefully the movements of two families—that of the Burgomaster, Anthony Van Straalen, and that of Dr. John Chenoweth.”

At the mention of the doctor's name the priest started as if stung, and beads of perspiration came out on his brow. He wiped them away, and his lips twitched nervously as though he were about to speak.

The Superior watched him with a quiet smile.

“You seem disturbed, Father Steen, by this command. Why?”

“You know why, your reverence. You are asking me to walk into temptation, to watch the actions of the woman I lo― once loved,” corrected the priest, catching his words just in time.

A curious look hovered in the Superior's eyes.

“How long is it since you have seen your old sweetheart?” he inquired contemptuously.

“Twenty years.”

“The best medicine I can recommend for you, Steen, is to go and see Madam Chenoweth—and