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The interrogator was not aware of the chord he touched; and

Gertrude, making a great effort to preserve the tranquillity of

her countenance, amid the tumult of her soul, replied. "The

motive is, to serve God, and to fly the perils of the world."

"Has there never been any disgust? any-excuse me-caprice? Often

trifling causes make impressions which we deem will be perpetual,

but the causes cease--"

"No, no," replied Gertrude, hastily; "the cause is that which I

have said."