Nevertheless, they are always bound to some shorter substitute, such as the Little Office, or to some similar office. And though the hours for devotion are prescribed, the duties of mercy sometimes interrupt the schedule which must then be carried out as circumstances of necessity permit.
Philippa, entering the chapel, caught sight of Sister Eila, and knelt without disturbing her.
The girl had experienced an odd, unaccustomed, and suddenly imperative desire for the stillness of an altar, for its shelter; for that silent security that reigns beneath the crucifix and invites the meditation of the pure in heart.
How long she had been seated there in the shadows she did not know, but presently she became aware of Sister Eila beside her, resting against her as though fatigued.
The girl put her arm around Sister Eila's neck instinctively, and drew the drooping head against her shoulder.
They had not known each other well.
That was the beginning.
CHAPTER XXXV
The growling and muttering of German guns in the north and northeast awoke Warner in his bed.
Sunrise plated his walls and ceiling with gold; the morning air hummed with indefinite sounds and rumors, the confusion and movement of many people stirring.