"Then you have committed no sin. You have only made an excusable
mistake. How were you led into error?"

"In this way, Father. Mr. Romayne had been speaking to me of a book
which you had been so good as to send to him. He had been especially
interested by the memoir therein contained of the illustrious
Englishman, Cardinal Acton. The degrees by which his Eminence rose to
the rank of a Prince of the Church seemed, as I thought, to have aroused
in my friend a new sense of vocation. He asked me if I myself aspired
to belong to the holy priesthood. I answered that this was indeed my
aspiration, if I might hope to be found worthy. He appeared to be deeply
affected. I ventured to ask if he too had the same prospect before him.
He grieved me indescribably. He sighed and said, 'I have no such hope; I
am married.' Tell me Father, I entreat you, have I done wrong?"

Father Benwell considered for a moment. "Did Mr. Romayne say anything
more?" he asked.

"No, Father."

"Did you attempt to return to the subject?"

"I thought it best to be silent."

Father Benwell held out his hand. "My young friend, you have not only
done no wrong--you have shown the most commendable discretion. I will
detain you no longer from your duties. Go to Mr. Romayne, and say that I
wish to speak with him."