Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/93

 be cured of your folly. Twenty years! Why, man, you left her a blooming girl. She is now a middle-aged woman, probably sour, disappointed, ugly. This is the concise history of most married women.”

“Your reverence,” said the priest passionately, “you have never been in love.”

“By the mass, I trust not! I have been graciously spared that folly.”

“Why folly?” demanded his companion.

“The confessional should answer that question for you. I have heard enough of these family histories in my day to make me a firm believer in celibacy. And as for beauty, just look about you!” and the Superior waved his hand toward the lovely faces on the wall, that seemed, in the dim light of the silver lamp, to take on the semblance of life. “I have seen scores of just as beautiful women, but never yet have I regretted my vow of celibacy.”

“You are a cynic!” retorted Father Steen.

“A cynic? Yes, perhaps! Every student of that elusive, disturbing quantity commonly known as woman is bound to be a cynic.”

The Superior smiled indulgently. “Father Steen, you are the only man in this house that I would allow to stand and argue with me. But you are a good man and a valuable man. I am sorry that you dislike your mission, but it must be performed nevertheless, and in your accustomed skilful manner.”