THE PASSION-FLOWER. 259 



know, m writing, that she was not allowed to see 

 a line of my comments on the books : all being 

 committed, by her superior, to their spiritual ad- 

 visers. She justified this proceeding, it is true ; 

 but I have reason to think it produced a strong 

 effect on her naturally ingenuous and honourable 

 mind. 



Many a time did we try to see one another 

 alone ; and so anxious was I, that I once asked 

 her to go to the chapel with me, and talk there : 

 but an old nun was beforehand with us, and was 

 seated in a stall, conning her book when we enter- 

 ed. E. glanced towards her, made a sign to me, 

 and proceeded to talk of gardening. Shortly after 

 this, they resolved to try what effect an imposing 

 ceremony would have on me. I had, of course, 

 refused to be present at the celebration of mass : 

 but now, two nuns were to profess, and take the 

 veil ; and so resolved were they to have me, that 

 not only were two front seats reserved, but the 

 whole service was fairly written out by the hand 

 of E., with a full explanation of the ceremonies, 

 and sent to me with tickets for my mother and 

 myself: while all that affection could dictate, or 

 flattery prompt, or animated description pourtray 

 to excite curiosity, was said in the accompanying 

 letter. I felt grieved to appear ungrateful for 

 such kindness ; I gave them credit for the most 

 obliging intentions, and perhaps, for a moment, I 



