the emblem of hope. I also will preserve hope now that the time of
suffering is come. Here again are two leaves of laurel. They remind me
of that crown incorruptible, which is reserved in heaven for all who
love the Lord and have submitted to His will upon the earth. Already I
think I see it, surrounded with golden rays. Flowers of the earth, you
are shortlived, as are its joys. You fade and wither in an instant, but
in heaven, after our short suffering on the earth, an unchangeable joy
awaits us and an eternal glory in Christ Jesus."

Talking thus to herself, Mary found her heart gradually grow consoled.
Suddenly a dark cloud covered the moon; darkness filled the prison. Her
flowers were blotted out from her sight, and grief again took
possession of her heart. But the cloud was merely temporary, and in a
little while the moon reappeared more beautiful than ever. "Thus,"
reflected Mary, "clouds can be cast over us, but it is only for a
little, and at the end we shine clearly again. If a dark suspicion
hangs over my character, God will make me triumphant over every false
accusation." The thought brought comfort to her; and Mary, stretching
herself upon her bed of straw, slept as tranquilly as a little child.

In her sleep she dreamed a beautiful dream. It seemed to her that she
was walking by moonlight in a garden which was quite new to her,
situated in a wilderness surrounded by a dark forest of oak trees. By
the light of the moon, which had never appeared to her so brilliant or
so beautiful before, she saw hundreds of flowers in this garden,
displaying their charms and filling the air with sweet perfume. Best of
all, she dreamed that her father was with her in this beautiful place.
The moon shining on his face showed his venerable countenance lighted
by a gracious smile. Running to him, she fell on his bosom and shed
tears of joy, with which her cheeks were wet when suddenly she awoke.
It had only been a dream, but it comforted her heart, and she slept
again.

CHAPTER V.

THE TRIAL.

Early in the morning, and almost before she was awake, an officer came
to Mary's cell to bring her forth for trial. At the sight of the room
in which the court was held she trembled, and her fears returned.
Sitting in a large scarlet chair was the judge. Before him a clerk
stood at an enormous table covered with papers.

A number of questions were put to Mary, to all of which she answered
truthfully. She found it impossibl