She dies to-night with her babe--thus, oh God, thus! by being built alive into the foundations of the house she has disgraced.

It is the judgment that has been passed upon her, judgment without forgiveness or reprieve.

I am the abbess of this convent--ask not its name or mine--and I love this sinner as though she were my daughter.

I have obtained this much of mercy for her because of my faithful services to the church and by secret influence, that when I give her the cup of water before the work is done, I may mix poison with it and touch the lips of the babe with poison, so that their end is swift.

I may do this and yet have no sin upon my soul.