Even as he did so, a dark form glided to the bedside.

Another moment, the uncle and niece were separated; none knew how, yet the Padre stood between, whispering low in the sufferer's ear.

Almost gasping for breath, the latter intimated his desire to confess for the last time.

And they were left alone.
Nearly an hour after, the priest entered the apartment where Florence and Mary sat.

He trembled visibly, yet, in his usual tone, said that he wished the family to be present at the last rites about to be performed for the dying Papist.