"Are you naughty to-day, and in penance?"
"I suppose I am always naughty, Sister Perpetua says so; but I am not in penance."
"Who gave you permission to come into our chapel? You know it is contrary to the rules. Did you ask Mother?"
"I knew she would say no, so I did not ask, because I was determined to come."
"Why? what is the matter? you have been crying."
"Oh, Sister Angela! don't you see?"
She lifted the corners of her apron where the dead pets lay, and her chin trembled.
"Another rabbit gone! How many have you left?"
"None. And this is my last white dove; the other two have coloured rings around their necks."
"I am very sorry for you, dear, you seem so fond of them. But, my child, why did you come here?"