Is it not ?' 'Undoubtedly.' 'What have I to do with my own particular case ?' The volcano flared up indignantly.

'It is my duty to do what is best for the souls and bodies of forty women and girls, more or less, and of a great number of sick persons here and in their own homes, without considering myself at all, my instincts, or my little individual discernment of my own feelings, or my human likes and dislikes of people.

If my duty leads me into temptation, I have got to face temptation intentionally, instead of avoiding it, as we are taught to do, and if I break down under it, so much the worse for me--the good of the others will have been accomplished nevertheless! That is one side of my life.

Another is that if my duty demands that I should tear out my heart and trample on it, I ought not to hesitate, though I knew I was to die of the pain!' The clear low voice vibrated strangely.
'But I will not do it, unless it is to bring about some real good to others,' she added.
Monsignor Saracinesca glanced at her face again before he answered.
'Your words are clear enough, but I do not understand you,' he said.
'If I can possibly help you, tell me what it is that distresses you.
If not, let us talk of other things.' 'You cannot help me.' Her thin lips closed upon each other in an even line.
'I am sorry,' answered the churchman gravely.

'As for Sister Giovanna's intention, I share your opinion, for I think she can do more good here than by sacrificing herself in Burmah.