Being anxious to keep my visit secret, I stayed with Agnes but a short time.

I bad her not let her spirits be cast down; I mingled my tears with those which streamed down her cheek, embraced her fondly, and was on the point of retiring, when I heard the sound of steps approaching the Cell.

I started back.
A Curtain which veiled a large Crucifix offered me a retreat, and I hastened to place myself behind it.

The door opened.

The Prioress entered, followed by four other Nuns.