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"These saints are odd creatures," thought Don Abbondio; "extract

the essence of this discourse, and it will be found that he has

more at heart the love of two young people, than the life of a

priest." He would have been delighted to have had the

conversation terminate here, but he well perceived that such was

not the intention of the cardinal, who appeared to be waiting a

reply, or apology, or something of the kind.

"I say, my lord," replied he, "that I have done wrong-We cannot

give ourselves courage."