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be rather the green longings of inexperience than the cold settled purpose of an evil will. He felt deep pity for the youth, and the sentiment was increased by the memories of his own past. Presently with a close and friendly embrace he said, "Religion gaineth nothing by doubts and struggles of the spirit, nor will the Company of Saint Ignatius accept involuntary service. Go thy ways. My conscience biddeth me bless thy speeding forth, and entreat Almighty God that He may befriend thee in thy rough and stony path. May He open to thee the treasures of His ineffable grace in time to save thee from all dangers!"

The Novice fell upon his knees and humbly received the benediction of the Religious. At the parting, the Padre felt his eyes fill with tears, which rolled down cheeks that were pale and drawn by grief. He followed with his glance the youth who left the enclosure and disappeared in the shades of night. He then arose from the tree-trunk, and mechanically climbed the hill towards the convent. Reaching the summit, he turned him round and sought once more to see the Novice.

Vain attempt! He had vanished from that scene for evermore.

During a few minutes the good Father prayed in silence; he then answered the porter's greeting and entered the establishment. Taking the way to the church, he fell prostrate before the altar, and in that position he prayed two long hours for the soul's weal of that unhappy Novice, torn from a religious vocation by the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil.