She was as patient as ever; she only made a little sign to me to go on.
"'I think Father Patrizio's letter might put you in a better frame of mind,' I said; 'it might keep you from despising yourself.' "She went back to her chair, and read the letter.

You have permitted me to keep the comforting words of the good Father, among my other treasures.

I copy his letter for you in this place--so that you may read it again, and see what I had in my mind, and understand how it affected poor Miss Minerva.
"'Teresa, my well-beloved friend,--I have considered the anxieties that trouble you, with this result: that I can do my best, conscientiously, to quiet your mind.

I have had the experience of forty years in the duties of the priesthood.

In that long time, the innermost secrets of thousands of men and women have been confided to me.