Danger in the Dark - ZseZse

DANGER IN THE DARK. 179
Oft I've grieved to think you unhappy. Shut up in
this cheerless prison, I know you are miserable, restless
and' discontented I Deny it not, Maria; seek not
to disguise it, Arabella; I read it in your looks; 't is
written on those faces once lighted by smiles, and
radiant with hope and joy - but now, alas, o'ercast
with sadness and gloom. Oh, how can you believe
the adorable Creator brought you into being for no
higher object or nobler purpose than that of filling a
living grave 1 A thousand opportunities of doing
good and benefiting humanity are ever open to those
whose hearts incline them to a life of piety, and to
deeds of charity and well-doing. But how is it possible,
incarcerated as you are within these narrow
walls, to render yourselves a blessing to society, a
comfortto your friends, or in anywise make your lives
useful1 Here, you are cut off from the sympathies
of life; and I may say from the stage of action, and
the great drama in which it is the duty of all to take
a part. Everything in creation condemns the monastic
life, and points aloft to nobler things, higher
aims, and more rational duties. If piety can better be
promoted within the somber walls of a convent, why
is the world without made so beautifully fair-so attractive
and enticing 1 If heaven intended we should
be otherwise than cheerful and happy, why is not
every flower a thorn, every sweet a bitter, every breath
a draught of pestilence, every sound a discord 1"
These remarks, accompanied as they were with
tears of sympathy, and uttered in touching tones of