He obeyed, and was conducted into the Parlour, where the Lady Prioress was already posted at the Grate.

The Nuns surrounded her, who all flocked with eagerness to a scene which promised some diversion.

Theodore saluted them with profound respect, and his presence had the power to smooth for a moment even the stern brow of the Superior.

She asked several questions respecting his Parents, his religion, and what had reduced him to a state of Beggary.

To these demands his answers were perfectly satisfactory and perfectly false.