to my own; yet I find no comfort. No joy has stolen to my heart, as
you promised it inevitably would."

"My daughter, if peace has not descended on thy spirit, I fear you
have not been devout. Tell me truly if you have not doubted in matters
of faith, for our most holy Mother ever grants the prayers of her
faithful and loving children?"

"I have searched the Bible, and I nowhere find authority for invoking
saints or the Virgin."

"I can convince you, without doubt, that there is such authority--nay,
command."

"'Tis useless, you may save yourself the trouble; for my mind is
clearly made up that we have not even the sanction of the Fathers."

"Holy Mary, pardon her unbelief, and send down light into her darkened
soul!"

Florence fixed her eyes full upon him, and replied--"Christ expressly
declares 'I am the light, I am the life.'"

"Daughter, your heretic cousin has done you a great injury. May God
protect you, and forgive her blasphemy."

"She needs no forgiveness, for she is pure in heart before God, and
truthful in all things."

The swarthy cheek of the Italian flushed--"Florence, you and your aunt