"It is ever opposites which attract.

The tall wed the short; the stout, the lean; the dark, the fair; the grave, the gay.

Wherefore my stern Crusader may be breaking his heart for your foolish little bird." "I do not think so," said the Prioress, shortly; then hastened to add: "Not that I would presume to differ from you, Reverend Father.
Doubtless you are better versed in such matters than I.

But--if it be as you suppose--what measures do you suggest?
How am I to deal with Sister Mary Seraphine ?" The Bishop leaned forward and whispered, though not another soul was within hearing; but at this juncture in the conversation, a whisper was both dramatic and effective.

Also, when he leaned forward, he could almost hear the angry beating of the heart of the Prioress.
The Bishop held the Prioress in high regard, and loved not to distress her.