Tightly they clung one to another, their eyes riveted on the face of the Padre.

There was a long pause; then Florence lifted herself proudly up, and cold and haughty was her tone: "It is not for me to deny your statement.

If my father sinned, peace to his memory, and may God forgive him.

One so sinful and malignant as yourself cannot be invested with divine prerogatives.
I have known your intentions with regard to myself since the hour I knelt in confession.

I was destined for a convent, and I tacitly acquiesced in your plans, hoping that so secluded from the world I should be comparatively happy; but my feelings are changed on many points, and any further interference from you will be received with the scorn it merits.