Abbe Judaine was coming in, and the Sacrament was about to be administered.

Marie, however, again penetrated by the fever of faith, her hands burning, leant towards Pierre.

"Oh, my friend!" said she, "I pray you hear me confess my fault and absolve me.

I have blasphemed, and have been guilty of mortal sin.

If you do not succour me, I shall be unable to receive the Blessed Sacrament, and yet I so greatly need to be consoled and strengthened." The young priest refused her request with a wave of the hand.