She ceased suddenly and burst into a passionate flood of tears.
He bent over her and with soft words tried to assuage her grief, which was painful to behold.
“You must not give way to despair. Bear up against the deep affliction which has fallen upon you,” he murmured. “Cheer up—brighter days are in store for you, let us hope.”
“For me there is no hope.”
“You must not say that. Hope never deserts us, however sorely we may be tried. It never deserts the truly repentant sinner—you do not need to be told that.”
“Oh, I am supremely miserable,” she ejaculated. “If it were possible for me to return to society without disgrace and exposure I would for the rest of my life devote myself to the service of my fellow-creatures. But——”
“But what?” he inquired.
“I fear it is not possible. Can you see any way?”
This was a home thrust, and the chaplain hardly knew what reply to make.
“I am sure you would lead an exemplary life—I hope so—if you obtained your release.”