That no scandal may
arise, your Excellency will permit that the charge under which this
arrest is made be declared."
Assent was given by an impatient gesture.
"Fra Antonio, while he hath been a recipient of our hospitality," said
the Superior, "is described by trustworthy advices from our Chapter in
Rome, but just received, as a person who hath designs upon the life of a
member of this community."
"It is a false scandal," cried Fra Antonio, who had found his voice at
last. "I shall not be condemned without proof!"
"The truth is known," said Fra Paolo, leaning toward him and speaking
low. "It were better for thee to confess--or depart in silence."
But the man was beside himself with fear; he caught at his last,
desperate chance of favor, dragging himself to the feet of Fra Paolo and
pouring out an abject tale of petty jealousies and offenses for which he
obsequiously craved pardon of this "idol of the convent," protesting,
with horrible oaths, that he was guilty of nothing more.
The rare shade of compassion that had softened Fra Paolo's face when he
gave his warning, deepened to a glory and his eyes shone with a grace
that was like love, as he raised the wretched man and strove to arrest
his torrent of words.
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