Pagina 167 di 1118

"Softly," said Agnes; "there is need of caution. We must procure

the witnesses; and find means to present ourselves to the curate

unexpectedly. He has been two days concealed in his house; we

must make him remain there. If he suspects your intention, he

will be as cunning as a cat, and flee as Satan from holy water."

Lucy here gained courage to offer her doubts of the propriety of

such a course. "Until now we have lived with candour and

sincerity," said she; "let us continue to do so; let us have

faith in God, and God will aid us. Father Christopher said so:

let us listen to his advice."

"Be guided by those who know better than you do," said Agnes

gravely. "What need of advice? God tells us, 'Help thyself, and I

will help thee.' We will tell the father all about it, when it is

over."