He saw himself as he was when he first professed his faith, and felt the zeal and holy aspirations that filled him then.

Years flew by at a glance, and he found himself sub-deacon; the sub-deacon became deacon; and the deacon, sub-prior, and the end of his ambition seemed plain before him.

But he had a rival; his fears told him a superior in zeal and learning: one who, though many years younger than he, had risen so rapidly in favour with the ecclesiastical authorities, that he threatened to outstrip him, even now, when the goal was full in view.

The darkest passage of his life approached: a crime which should cast a deep shadow over the whole of his brilliant after-career.

He would have shunned its contemplation, if he could.