He was gradually bringing the unhappy woman into what he called "a heavenly mind"-- the influence of her daughters, he was sure, would be that of worldly affections and sinful liberty.

And Rachela obeyed the confessor so faithfully, that the Senora was almost in a state of solitary confinement.

Every day her will was growing weaker, her pathetic obedience more childlike and absolute.
But at midnight, when every one was asleep, Antonia stepped softly into her sister's room and talked to her.

They sat in Isabel's bed clasping each other's hand in the dark, and speaking in whispers.

Then Antonia warned and strengthened Isabel.