she covers the
feelings of her heart; but when it is once lifted by a friendly hand,
the hidden sorrows of her attachment escape as through a newly-opened
barrier, and the sweet outpourings of unrestrained confidence succeed
to her former mystery and reserve. Virginia, deeply affected by this new
proof of her mother's tenderness, related to her the cruel struggles
she had undergone, of which heaven alone had been witness; she saw,
she said, the hand of Providence in the assistance of an affectionate
mother, who approved of her attachment; and would guide her by her
counsels; and as she was now strengthened by such support, every
consideration led her to remain with her mother, without anxiety for the
present, and without apprehension for the future.

Madame de la Tour, perceiving that this confidential conversation had
produced an effect altogether different from that which she expected,
said,--"My dear child, I do not wish to constrain you; think over it at
leisure, but conceal your affection from Paul. It is better not to let a
man know that the heart of his mistress is gained."

Virginia and her mother were sitting together by themselves the same
evening, when a tall man, dressed in a blue cassock, entered their
cottage. He was a missionary priest and the confessor of Madame de la
Tour and her daughter, who had now been sent to them by the governor.
"My children," he exclaimed as he entered, "God be praised! you are
now rich. You can now attend to the kind suggestions of your benevolent
hearts, and do good to the poor. I know what Monsieur de la Bourdonnais
has said to you, and what you have said in reply. Your health, dear
madam, obliges you to remain here; but you, young lady, are without
excuse. We must obey our aged relations, even when they are unjust.
A sacrifice is required of you; but it is the will of God. Our Lord
devoted himself for you; and you in imitation of his example, must give
up something for the welfare of your family. Your voyage to France will
end happily. You will surely consent to go, my dear young lady."

Virginia, with downcast eyes, answered, trembling, "If it is the command
of God, I will not presume to oppose it. Let the will of God be done!"
As she uttered these words, she wept.

The priest went away, in order to inform the governor of the success of
his mission. In the meantime Madame de la Tour sent Domingo to request
me to come to her, that she might consult me respecting Virginia'