"But your influence will prevail."
"You are quite mistaken, Monica. Papa won't listen to me. You saw how sternly he regarded me just now. He is displeased with me, as if I were to blame, because things have gone contrary to his wishes."
"I cannot conceive why he dislikes Atherton so much," said Monica, "but I am sure his aversion is most unreasonable."
"I hoped it might be overcome," sighed Constance, "but I now begin to despair. Even the prince, I fear, will not be successful."
"Do you think Sir Richard has an ill-adviser?" remarked Monica, significantly.
"I hope not," rejoined Constance.
Let us now see what passed between Sir Richard and the priest when they were closeted together.
For a few moments the baronet seemed indisposed to commence the conversation; but as Father Jerome remained silent, he forced himself to speak.
"I am placed in a very awkward dilemma, as you are doubtless aware," he said, "and scarcely know how to act. Having consented to meet Atherton Legh in the prince's presence I am unable to retreat with honour, and yet I cannot answer certain questions that will inevitably be put to me."
"Can you not brave it out?" rejoined Father Jerome. "The prince cannot be acquainted with any secret matters connected with this young man."