rsulines open for you, it
shall open for Heloise de Lotbiniere also."

"I have no right to say nay, Heloise, nor will I," replied Amelie,
embracing her; "you are of my blood and lineage, and the lamp
of Repentigny is always burning in the holy chapel to receive
broken-hearted penitents like you and me!"

"Oh, Heloise, do not you also leave us! Stay till to-morrow!" exclaimed
the agitated girls, amazed at this new announcement.

"My mind is made up; it has long been made up!" replied Heloise. "I only
waited the marriage of Amelie before consummating my resolution to enter
the convent. I go now to comfort Amelie, as no other friend in the world
can comfort her. We shall be more content in the midst of our sorrows to
be together."

It was in vain to plead with or to dissuade them. Amelie and Heloise
were inexorable and eager to be gone. They again kissed their
companions, with many tears bidding them a last farewell, and the two
weeping girls, hiding their heads under their veils, left the bright
mansion that was their home, and proceeded with hasty steps towards the
Convent of the Ursulines.

CHAPTER LII. THE LAMP OF REPENTIGNY.

Closely veiled, acknowledging no one, looking at no one, and not
themselves recognized by any, but clinging to each other for mutual
support, Amelie and Heloise traversed swiftly the streets that led to
the Convent of the Ursulines.

At the doors, and in the porches and galleries of the old-fashioned
houses, women stood in groups, discussing eagerly the wild reports that
were flying to and fro through the city, and looking up and down the
streets for further news of the tragedy in the market-place. The male
part of the population had run off and gathered in excited masses around
the mansion of the Golden Dog, which was suddenly shut up, and long
streamers of black crape were hanging at the door.

Many were the inquisitive glances and eager whisperings of the good
wives and girls as the two ladies, deeply veiled in black, passed by
with drooping heads and handkerchiefs pressed against their faces, while
more than one quick ear caught the deep, suppressed sobs that broke from
their bosoms. No one ventured to address them, however, although their
appearance caused no little speculation as to who they were and whither
they were going.

Amelie and Heloise, almost fainting under their sorrow, stood upon the
broad stone step which formed the threshold that separated the world
they were