his holy life and good works. We are not put into this world to please
ourselves, but to further the progress of the kingdom of God."

"Oh, Sister Agatha, believe me, I will become a nurse for the sick, and
bear all the hardships and trials of such a vocation; only spare
me--spare me this one thing! I cannot give myself to Brother Jonathan.
You must not--you dare not require it of me!" cried the girl, bursting
into tears.

"No, Carmen, I will not compel you, although it grieves me for your
sake," said Agatha. "Go, now, and on your knees examine your heart,
lest you may refuse that which is intended for your greatest good."
And kissing Carmen, she dismissed her.

The hours wore on, and still Sister Agatha remained lost in thought,
wondering what new ideas had been put into that young head. "Perhaps
she was right. Vanity and pride! How frightful the words sound! We
never know ourselves as well as we do others; so, after all, the child
has given me a good lesson. I must look into my own heart more
thoroughly, and be more severe with myself, before I presume to advise
and guide other people. Lord, help me to a right knowledge of my duty
to Thee!"

She extinguished the light, and sought repose from her anxieties.




CHAPTER V.