She lived the life of an angel upon the earth.

I never saw her, by look, by word, or tone, transgress the least of the commandments, so wonderful was the curb she held over all her human feelings.

Nor was this perfection attained by a sudden and grand sacrifice; the consecration of herself to the religious life was not the "single step 'twixt earth and heaven," but it was attained by daily and hourly study--by the practice of a hundred self-denials--by the most accurate science of spiritual progress.
Doubtless, saints can be made in other ways, but this is one way they can be made, starting with a sincere intention to serve God.

At least, so I believe, from knowing Sister Madeline.
She made a great change in my life, and I owe her a great deal.

It is not strange I feel enthusiasm for her.