What if she was a nun professed? Her profession had been
against her will, preceded by only one year of novitiate, and she
was still within the five probationary years prescribed.
Therefore, in her view, her vows were revocable.
But this was a matter beyond the general consideration or
knowledge, and so the scandal grew. Within the convent there
was none bold enough, considering Anne's royal rank, to offer
remonstrance or advice, particularly too, considering that her
behaviour had the sanction of Frey Miguel, the convent's
spiritual adviser. But from without, from the Provincial of
the Order of St. Augustine, came at last a letter to Anne,
respectfully stern in tone, to inform her that the numerous
visits she received from a pastry-cook were giving rise to talk,
for which it would be wise to cease to give occasion. That
recommendation scorched her proud, sensitive soul with shame. She
sent her servant Roderos at once to fetch Frey Miguel, and placed
the letter in his hands.
The friar's dark eyes scanned it and grew troubled.
"It was to have been feared," he said, and sighed.
"There is but one remedy, lest worse follow and all be ruined.
Don Sebastian must go."
"Go?" Fear robbed her of breath.
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