When He sets his heart on a man, he is
permitted to live there."
"Grace of God! You speak the truth. Shall we then give up
the gift of His hand to heretics and infidels?"
"I cannot imagine it."
"Then every one must do the work he can do. Some are to slay
the unbelievers; others; are to preserve the children of the
Church. Your niece and her two daughters will be lost to the
faith, unless you interfere for their salvation. Of you will
their souls be required."
"By Saint Joseph, it is a duty not in agreement with my
desire! I, who have carefully abstained from the charge of a
wife and daughters of my own."
"It is but for a day or two, Marquis, until the matter is
arranged. The convent is the best of all refuges for women so
desolate."
The marquis did not answer. He lifted a book and began to
read; and Fray Ignatius watched him furtively.
In the mean time the Senora had reached her home. She
was pleased with the result of her visit. A little kindness
easily imposed upon this childlike woman, and she trusted in
any one who was pleasant to her.
"You may believe me, Antonia," she said; "my uncle was in a
temper most unusual. He kissed my hands. He offered me his
protection. That is a great thing, I assure you. And your
father cannot object to our removal there."
Antonia knew not what answer to make.
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