n to these interior experiences. We leave them with the
remark that his novitiate was characterized by a continuance of
Divine interferences similar to those which had occurred at intervals
from the time he was driven from home and business to seek the
fulfilment of his aspirations.

The following is the record of a brave soul's failure to become a
Redemptorist. It is given in a letter dated September 14, 1846:
"Brother McMaster, who returns to the U.S., gives me the opportunity
of writing a few lines to you," etc. It was a profound disappointment
for Mr. McMaster to be obliged to return home a layman, and it
shocked his companions. It is a little singular that Father Othmann
told him that his vocation was not to be a religious, but an editor.
He carried with him Brother Hecker's messages of affection to his
friends and relatives, and rosaries of Isaac's own making for his
mother and his brother George.

Writing to the latter, on August 26, 1846, after some tender and
affectionate words, he says: "I have now nearly eight weeks until the
time of taking the vows. Oh that it were but eight minutes, nay,
eight seconds, when I shall be permitted, with the favor and grace of
God, to consecrate my whole being and life to His sole service!
Millions of worlds put on top of one another could not purchase from
me my vocation. We make fifteen days' retreat before we take the
vows. You must recommend me very particularly to the Rt. Rev. Bishop
McCloskey; tell him the time of my taking the vows (Feast of St.
Teresa, October 15), and give him my humble request to remember me at
that time in his prayers."

On the feast of St. Teresa, October 15, 1846, therefore, the two
American novices took their vows, and became members of the
Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer. On the very morning of that
event, at half-past eight, Brother Hecker wrote a letter to his
mother, in which he goes over all of his trials and experiences in
following the Divine guidance since he first quitted business. He
breathes intense affection in every word, and writes in a solemn
mood. We would give the letter to the reader entire, but that he has
already learned what it narrates. It ends thus: "Dear mother, in half
an hour I go to the chapel to consecrate my whole being for ever to
God and His service. What peace, what happiness this gives me! To
live alone for His love, and to love all for His love, in His love,
and with His love!"

After the ceremony was