But, for your comfort, I tell you that the saints who have suffered a fiery martyrdom stand at the feet of those who, like you, endure the continual crucifixion of their affections." The Senora was silent, but not displeased and the priest then ventured a little further: "But there is an end to all trials, daughter and I now absolve you from the further struggle.

Decide this day for your God and your country.
Make an offering to Almighty God and the Holy Mother of your earthly love.

Give yourself and your daughters and all that you have to the benign and merciful Church.

Show these rebels and heretics--these ungrateful recipients of Mexican bounty--what a true Catholic is capable of.

His Divine Majesty and the Holy Mary demand this supreme sacrifice from you." "Father, I have my husband, and my sons; to them, also, I owe some duties." "The Church will absolve you from them." "It would break my heart." "Listen then: If it is your right hand, or your right eye--that is, if it is your husband, or your child--you are commanded to give them up; or--it is God's word--there is only hell fire." "Mother of Sorrows, pity me! What shall I do ?" She looked with the terror of a child into the dark, cruel face of the priest.