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"Now," continued he, "you perceive, my children, that this

country is no longer safe for you. It is your country, I know;

you were born here; you have wronged no one: but such is the will

of God! It is a trial, children, support it with patience, with

faith, without murmuring; and be assured, there will come a day,

in which you will see the wisdom of all that now befalls you. I

have procured you a refuge for a season, and I hope you will soon

be able to return safely to your home; at all events, God will

provide, and I his minister will faithfully exert myself to serve

you, my poor persecuted children. You," continued he, turning to

the females, "can remain at --. There you will be beyond danger,

and yet not far from home; go to our convent in that place, ask

for the superior, give him this letter, he will be to you another

Friar Christopher. And thou, my Renzo, thou must place thyself in

safety from the impetuosity of others, and your own.