“That you should abhor me for my weakness; that the reward of my confidence should be the loss of your esteem.”

“How shall I reassure you? Reflect upon the whole of my past conduct, upon the paternal tenderness which I have ever shown you. Abhor you, Rosario? It is no longer in my power. To give up your society would be to deprive myself of the greatest pleasure of my life. Then reveal to me what afflicts you, and believe me while I solemnly swear.⁠ ⁠…”

“Hold!” interrupted the novice; “Swear, that whatever be my secret, you will not oblige me to quit the monastery till my novitiate shall expire.”

“I promise it faithfully, and as I keep my vows to you, may Christ keep his to mankind. Now then explain this mystery, and rely upon my indulgence.”