It has been 'contrite' since.

And well I know, although so far from worthy, it has not been despised." She lifted her eyes to the golden glory behind the battlements of purple cloud.
"Our blessed Lady interceded," she said, simply; "she, who understands a woman's heart." The Knight was breathing hard.

The folded arms rose and fell, with the heaving of his chest.

But he kept his lips firm shut; though praying, all the while, that our Lady might have, also, some understanding of the heart of a man! "I think it right that you should know, dear Hugh," went on the sad voice, gently; "that, at first, I suffered greatly.

I spent long agonizing nights, kneeling before our Lady's shrine, imploring strength to conquer the love and the longing which had become sin." A stifled groan broke from the Knight.
The golden light shone in her steadfast eyes, and played about her noble brow.
"And strength was given," she said, very low.
"Mora!" cried the Knight--She started.