May I ask you a question ?' 'Yes.' The voice had changed even in that single word, and was kind and encouraging.
'Two years ago, before I became a novice, you asked me why I wanted to be a nun, Mother.

You thought my intention was good.

Now that there is still time before I make my profession, I have come to ask you once again what you think.' 'So far as I know, I think you can be a good nun,' answered the Mother Superior without waiting to hear more, for she never wasted time if she could possibly help it.
Angela understood her and told her story quickly and clearly, without a quiver or an inflection of pain in her voice.

It was necessary, for the Mother did not know it all, and listened with concentrated attention.

But before it was ended she had made up her mind what to say.
'My dear child,' said she, 'I am not your confessor! And besides, I am prejudiced, for you are a good nurse and I need you and wish you to stay.