It will be out of the question for you to go back to your Convent, even for an hour.

Even if the Mother Superior were willing, it could not be done.

In the Middle Ages, you would have been sent to a prison for penitents for the rest of your life; nowadays you will simply be turned out of your order with public disgrace, the papers will be full of your story, your aunt will make Rome ring with it----' 'What do you mean by all this ?' cried the Sister, breaking out at last.

'Are you trying to frighten me ?' 'No.

I wish you to know that I will let nothing stand between you and me--nothing, absolutely nothing.' He repeated the word with cold energy.