ord family," she said serenely; "it was useless
to us."

"But--" began the inquisitor.

"We needed some new vestments," she went on. "You will understand, Mr.
Torridon, that it was necessary for for us to sell it. We are not rich
at all."

There was nothing else that called for comment; except the manner in
which the books were kept. Ralph suggested some other method.

"Dame Agnes has her own ways," said the old lady. "We must not disturb
her."

And Dame Agnes assumed a profound and financial air on the other side of
the table.

Presently Ralph put a mark in the inventory against a "cope of gold
bawdekin," and requested that it might be brought.

The sister-sacristan rose at a word from the Abbess and went out,
returning presently with the vestment. She unfolded the coverings and
spread it out on the table before Ralph.

It was a magnificent piece of work, of shimmering gold, with orphreys
embroidered with arms; and she stroked out its folds with obvious pride.

"These are Warham's arms," observed the Abbess. "You know them, Mr.
Torridon? We worked these the month before his death."

Ralph nodded briskly.

"Will you kindly leave it here, Reverend Mother," he said. "I wish to
see it again presently."

The Abbess gave no hint of discomposure, but signed to the sacristan to
place it over a chair at one side.

There were a couple of other things that Ralph presently caused to be
fetched and laid aside--a precious mitre with a couple of cameos in
front, and bordered with emeralds, and a censer with silver filigree
work.

Then came a more difficult business.

"I wish to see the nuns one by one, Reverend Mother," he said. "I must
ask you to withdraw."

The Abbess gave him a quick look, and then rose.

"Very well, sir, I will send them in." And she went out with Mr. Morris
behind her.

They came in one by one, and sat down before the table, with downcast
eyes, and hands hidden beneath their scapulars; and all told the same
tale, except one. They had nothing to complain of; they were happy; the
Rule was carefully observed; there were no scandals to be revealed; they
asked nothing but to be left in peace. But there was one who came in
nervously and anxiously towards the end, a woman with quick black eyes,
who glanced up and down and at the door as she sat down. Ralph put the
usual questions.

"I wish to be released, sir," she said. "I am weary of the life, and
the--" she stopped and glanced swiftly up a