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"
"He must have had bad news," flashed through
Arthur's mind, as he looked anxiously at the haggard
face. There was a long pause.
"How do you like the new Director?" Montanelli
asked suddenly.
The question was so unexpected that, for a moment,
Arthur was at a loss how to reply to it.
"I--I like him very much, I think--at least--
no, I am not quite sure that I do. But it is difficult
to say, after seeing a person once."
Montanelli sat beating his hand gently on the
arm of his chair; a habit with him when anxious
or perplexed.
"About this journey to Rome," he began again;
"if you think there is any--well--if you wish it,
Arthur, I will write and say I cannot go."
"Padre! But the Vatican------"
"The Vatican will find someone else. I can
send apologies."
"But why? I can't understand."
Montanelli drew one hand across his forehead.
"I am anxious about you. Things keep coming
into my head--and after all, there is no need
for me to go------"
"But the bishopric----"
"Oh, Arthur! what shall it profit me if I gain a
bishopric and lose----"
He broke off.


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