"I am content," he replied, "with the love that I feel within myself,
and with the hope that there is the like in the hearts of the ladies. If
I knew that my hopes were true, I should have such gladness that I could
not endure it and live."

"Keep clear of the plague," said Geburon; "as for the other sickness
you mention, I will warrant you against it. But I should like to know to
whom the Lady Oisille will give her vote?"

"I give it," she said, "to Simontault, who I know will be sparing of
none."

"That," he replied, "is as much as to say that I am somewhat given to
slander; however, I will show you that reputed slanderers have spoken
the truth. I am sure, ladies, that you are not so foolish as to believe
all the tales that you are told, no matter what show of sanctity they
may possess, if the proof of them be not clear beyond doubt. Many an
abuse lurks even under the guise of a miracle, and for this reason I am
minded to tell you the story of a miracle that will prove no less to the
honour of a pious Prince than to the shame of a wicked minister of the
Church."

[Illustration: 028.jpg Tailpiece]

[Illustration: 029a.jpg The Execution of the Wicked Priest and his Sister]

[The Execution of the Wicked Priest and his Sister]

[Illustration: 029.jpg Page Image]