Harry Bailey; "for her lady the Prioress charmed us with her tale of
the little martyr. That story will long stay in my memory. Now,
madam, if you please, begin. We wait to hear your tale."

In serious tones the Nun began thus:

"Of all sins there is, if I may so describe it, one foster-mother,
and that is idleness. If we but keep our hands and minds engaged in
some virtuous occupation, we may avoid the snares of the Devil and
walk in righteousness. For this reason I have devoted some of my
leisure to a work which I esteem suitable to my calling and in
conformity with my vows, the translation of the life of St. Cecilia.
My translation is in verse. I will recite it to you if I may."



INVOCATION TO MARY

O Mary maiden, Christé's Mother free,
Fair flower of womanhood, fountain of grace,
Look down upon us. Come and hallow me
Thy humble slave, who worship in this place.
Through thee did God intend mankind to save,
Through thee, and through thy stainless purity
God's Son has rent the tomb, and burst the grave
For those that worship thee in sanctity.
O Mary Mother, for thine own true love,
And for the love thy Child to mankind bore,
And by the Holy Spirit, heavenly dove,
And by the saints that tread the golden floor,