Page 292 sur 1118

In the mean time nothing prevented them from manifesting their

joy at her request. There was then heard a confused murmur of

congratulations and rejoicing.

Whilst the nuns were surrounding their new companion, and

offering their congratulations to all the party, the abbess

expressed her wish to address a few words to the prince at the

parlour grating.

"Signor," said she, "in obedience to our rules-to fulfil a

necessary form-I must inform you-that whenever a young person

desires to assume-the superior, which I am, though unworthily, is

obliged to make known to the parents that if-they have forced the

will of their daughter, they will incur the pains of

excommunication. You will excuse--"

"Oh! yes, yes, reverend mother. Your exactitude is very

praiseworthy, very just. But you cannot doubt--"

"Oh! imagine, prince, if-but I merely speak by order; besides--"

"True-true, reverend mother."

After these few words, and a renewal of compliments and thanks,

they departed.