knew full well that he scorned their creed, and disliked their Padre.
Yet now that he is so weak, in both body and mind, they hope to
influence him. Oh, how could Florence be so blind! Dear Mrs. Carlton,
come and reason with him. I know he esteems you very highly, and your
opinion might weigh with him."

"Indeed, my dear child, I will do all in my power to dissuade him
from the unfortunate course he has taken, but not to-night; he must be
wearied very much already. I will come in the morning."

Early the ensuing day she fulfilled her promise, and in Florence's
presence strove to elicit his views and belief. To her surprise he
refused to hold any conversation on the subject; declaring that his
mind was made up, and that he was determined to die a member of the
holy Catholic Church.

Before she could frame a reply, they were startled by the sound of a
struggle at the door, and the next moment it was flung wide open, and
Father Mazzolin, livid with rage, rushed in. Mrs. Carlton rose with
gentle dignity, and inquired his business. He heeded not her question,
but strode to the bed, and whispered in Mr. Hamilton's ear. The
invalid, in a voice so feeble that it was scarce audible, requested
them to leave him with the Padre for an hour, as he wished to converse
with him alone. Mrs. Carlton perfectly well understood that he but
repeated the priest's orders, and perceiving that nothing could now be
effected, left the room accompanied by Florence. But Mary clung to the
bed, and refused to go.

"You have taken advantage of my uncle's weakness to force yourself
where your presence is unwelcome, and I will not leave him when he is