arm of his chair; a habit with him when anxious
or perplexed.

"About this journey to Rome," he began again;
"if you think there is any--well--if you wish it,
Arthur, I will write and say I cannot go."

"Padre! But the Vatican------"

"The Vatican will find someone else. I can
send apologies."

"But why? I can't understand."

Montanelli drew one hand across his forehead.

"I am anxious about you. Things keep coming
into my head--and after all, there is no need
for me to go------"

"But the bishopric----"

"Oh, Arthur! what shall it profit me if I gain a
bishopric and lose----"

He broke off. Arthur had never seen him like
this before, and was greatly troubled.

"I can't understand," he said. "Padre, if you
could explain to me more--more definitely, what