my way in peace. Sister Agatha must be waiting for me."

At the mention of the Sister's name, Jonathan gave an anxious glance at
Carmen. It flashed on his mind what fearful consequences might result
from his conduct. He remembered the law of the Brotherhood, which
required that the members must report the slightest departure from
strict morality in any one of their number, so that the delinquent be
reprimanded and excluded once or twice from the monthly celebration of
the Communion. Should he give evidence of repentance, and return to
the right path, he might be restored to his usual privileges; but if he
should not acknowledge his fault, he must absent himself from the
society of others, and, in an extreme case, be banished from the
Brotherhood.

Brother Jonathan, heretofore so strict, and spotless in his reputation,
to be publicly accused and admonished! What an appalling example of
fallen greatness!

At the mention of Agatha's name, he endeavored to resume his habitual
calmness. He passed his hand over his eyes, as if to blot out the
remembrance of the passion which yet burned within him, and gradually
regained, in voice and manner, a more collected mien.

"You have seen, dear Sister, how our passions sometimes get the mastery
over us, and how vain are our efforts to subdue them, even though we
have devoted ourselves to a religious life!" said he, in an humble
tone. "If you cannot give me your love, you can at least be silent
about my feeling towards you, and forget what has just occurred, and
for which I shall ask pardon from Heaven."