The coming of the priest had been unforeseen and unfortunate.

He knew Father Montigny, and Father Montigny knew him.

Now how much did Father Montigny know of his plans?
That was the important question.
While he was yet speaking, Father Montigny, whom a very little of rest and food always sufficed, entered the room, his manner full of austerity.
Francisco Alvarez rose, all blandness and courtesy.
"Be seated, Father," he said.

"It is a poor place that we have here, but we give you of our best.

Who would deserve it more than you, a man of such long travels and such great hardships in the holiest of all causes ?" The face of the priest did not relax.