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The vicar, in order to execute his duty fully, persisted in his

enquiries, but Gertrude was determined to deceive him. She could

not for a moment think of rendering the good man acquainted with

her weakness; she knew, indeed, that he could prevent her being a

nun, but that this would be the extent of his authority and his

protection. When he should be gone, she would still be left

alone, to endure fresh trials from her father and the family.

Finding, therefore, a uniform answer to all his questions, he

became somewhat wearied of putting them, and, concluding that all

was as it should be, with many prayers for her welfare, he took

his leave. As he crossed the hall he met the prince, and

congratulated him on the good dispositions of his daughter.