And, for some, closeness to death brings an epiphany which alters their lives forever.

Sister Bertrada should be grateful the pillows were so flimsy for Catherine was sorely tempted to smother her with one.

A piece of advice his father had given him surfaced in Edgar’s mind. Sometimes, he had said, it’s better just to keep quiet and think with your heart.

Rhetoric worked beautifully when applied to simple things like the nature of God, but how was one to use it in the chaos of human actions?

Catherine Le Vendeur," he asked sententiously, "have you known this man carnally?""No father," Catherine answered. "But, with your kind permission, I would very much like to.

A piece of advice his father had given him surfaced in Edgar's mind. Sometimes, he had said, it's better just to keep quiet and think with your heart.