Also, Sister Abigail declares, the voice was so weak and faltering, she scarce knew it for the Reverend Mother's.

And since then, my lord, there has been silence within the cell, and a sore sense of fear within our hearts; for it is unlike the Reverend Mother to keep her door locked, when the entire community calls and knocks without." The Bishop lifted his hand.
"In that speak you truly, Mother Sub-Prioress," said he.

"Also I must tell you without further delay, that the Prioress is not within her cell." "_Not_ within her cell!" exclaimed Mother Sub-Prioress.
"Not within her cell!" shrieked a score of terrified voices, like seagulls calling to each other, before a gathering storm.
"The Prioress left the Convent yesterday afternoon," said the Bishop, "with my knowledge and approval; travelling at once, with a sufficient escort, to a place some distance from Worcester, where I also spent the night.

I have come to bring you a message from His Holiness the Pope, sent to me direct from Rome.

.