Out of the Past — page 32: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

Out of the Past. 29 my habit for so long; habit is strong. But I have given you to-day the best proof of affection a man can give. I have shown you my heart. That that is painful, you are not old enough to know. Put your hand in mine. (See what it is to pound one’s heart into a habit—I cannot take it if you do not give it me.) So—to this nervous young hand you have given its task in life already, before your body has reached its full stature even.” Robert felt that Benedict was bidding him farewell, and he rebelled as youth invariably rebels against finality. “But it is not far to the Place de l’Opera.” “You are mistaken. It is very far—all the way beyond the outermost circle of my duties. I may call upon you. But what is that? ‘The communion of interest will never be the same. Still I cannot say, remain with me. I would not have you like myself when you are in your prime.” “You regret the monastery exceedingly,” said Robert, with doubting wonder. “Exceedingly. If it is a sin, I hope the sacrifice of my life will atone. If it will not, there are many others to +9 suffer with me.” Robert crossed himself and the priest looked back at him with a smile. “You are so young, Robert, with all your depth and all your power! But tell me now what in your heart of hearts is the thing for which you long.” GOmicsooks (E(@)