Other times; or, The monks of Leadenhall - Softcover

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1858 Excerpt: ... the sound of mirth in such a place; but that surprise was not a little increased when she saw the prioress and a nun issue from it, still laughing with unrestrained gaiety. Their merriment was suspended on perceiving Mariana, whom they now approached. The prioress perceived her amazement. "Tou seem confounded, sister Mariana," she remarked, "to find that laughter can obtain place in a religious establishment." "The sound attracted my attention," said Mariana, "as somewhat unusual." "But which may become familiar to you, if you are not cruel to yourself." "That, madam, I fear is impossible. Laughter cannot restore a dear relation, and--" "And a still dearer lover, you would have added, if your candour or courage had not failed you. That may be true; but tolerable substitutes may be discovered to console the sorrowing vestal for both." "Aye, madam, for hearts that know their duty, and which, trained to devotion in looking forward to future bliss, have already commenced their heaven on earth." The prioress and the nun; her companion, looked at each other, and apparently found some difficulty in abstaining from a new fit of laughter. The superior, however, recovered the government of her countenance, and having subdued the insurrectionary mirth of her features, she spoke. "Step you into the house, Catherine: I shall remain here awhile to bestow a little spiritual consolation on our young friend." The nun laughed while the prioress spoke, and retired. Mariana was not prepared to witness such levity, and her inquiring eyes were directed towards the prioress, soliciting information. She did not wait long for it. "Child!" said the prioress, "you still dare scar...