I saw this afternoon that I should never persuade you to ask for your freedom unless I could talk to you alone where you must hear me; the chance came unexpectedly and I took it, for it would never have come again.

I had no other place, I had not thought of what I should say, but I was ready to risk everything, all for all--as I have done----' 'You have, indeed,' the nun said slowly, while he hesitated.
'And I have failed.

Forgive me if you can.

It was for love of you and for your sake.' 'For my sake, you should be true and brave and kind,' answered the Sister.

'But you ask forgiveness, and I forgive you, and I will try to forget, too.