THE ROLE OF PERE CASSATI I have no knowledge as to what the surprised priest thought regarding the astounding apparition thus bursting upon him.

Perchance he mistook me for the ghost of some ancient Father Superior visiting him in warning of his sins.

However, I permitted him small space for any reflection.

I have ever been swift in action; was awake then with the excitement of my venture, and little accustomed to hesitancy at such a time.

Moreover, I despised the fellow, and was not loath to be the instrument of punishment to him, and I never struck any man a deadlier blow with the bare fist than that I put in just back of his ear.