“The day that you were at Mrs. Carlton’s, learning to make that custard my father likes so well, the Padre came, and kindly sat with him some time.  He came the next night, and the next; and read and prayed with him.  I hope you are satisfied now that there is no intrusion.”  All this was whispered so low as not to reach the ears of the invalid.

“Were you present at any of these interviews, Florry?”

“No; they always preferred being alone,”

“Oh! why did you not tell me this before?”

“I am sure I can’t see what you are so excited about!  If my father chooses to become a Catholic, I should think it would relieve you to know that he realizes his situation.”  She turned resolutely away as she finished speaking, and seated herself beside the bed.

Mary left the room almost stunned by the discovery she had made; and scarce knowing what to do, wrapped her shawl about her, and walked quickly to Mrs. Carlton’s.  To her she related all she had just learned, and begged her advice and assistance.

Mrs. Carlton was sorely puzzled and much distressed.

“I fear, Mary, it is too late to remedy the evil.”

“Oh, do not say so!  I cannot bear that he should die in that faith; he is too feeble to oppose anything they offer, and is scarcely conscious of his own actions.  In health, they dared not approach him; for they knew full well that he scorned their creed, and disliked their Padre.  Yet now that he is so weak, in both body and mind, they hope to influence him.  Oh, how could Florence be so blind!  Dear Mrs. Carlton, come and reason with him.  I know he esteems you very highly, and your opinion might weigh with him.”

“Indeed, my dear child, I will do all in my power to dissuade him from the unfortunate course he has taken, but not to-night; he must be wearied very much already.  I will come in the morning.”

Early the ensuing day she fulfilled her promise, and in Florence’s presence strove to elicit his views and belief.  To her surprise he refused to hold any conversation on the subject; declaring that his mind was made up, and that he was determined to die a member of the holy Catholic Church.

Before she could frame a reply, they were startled by the sound of a struggle at the door, and the next moment it was flung wide open, and Father Mazzolin, livid with rage, rushed in.  Mrs. Carlton rose with gentle dignity, and inquired his business.  He heeded not her question, but strode to the bed, and whispered in Mr. Hamilton’s ear.  The invalid, in a voice so feeble that it was scarce audible, requested them to leave him with the Padre for an hour, as he wished to converse with him alone.  Mrs. Carlton perfectly well understood that he but repeated the priest’s orders, and perceiving that nothing could now be effected, left the room accompanied by Florence.  But Mary clung to the bed, and refused to go.

“You have taken advantage of my uncle’s weakness to force yourself where your presence is unwelcome, and I will not leave him when he is too weak to oppose your orders.”