"You GAVE him the candlesticks? But, Monsigneur..."

"There are worse things to give away," Monsigneur Bienvenu stated with a look so convincing that Madame Magloire let the harsh words slip off her tongue unspoken. Then the bishop knelt by the table and began to pray.

"Lord God, I ask that You gave value to these candlesticks, so that this man can use them to start his life anew. I ask that You guide and protect the man, and lead him away from temptation. Thy will be done, Father. Lord, I ask also that You keep this man's intentions good and honest. Lord, most of all, I ask that you please send him someone to love. I know, Lord, that Your love can put him on the path of righteousness. Lord, please show him love."

"En nomine de patri et filii et spiritu santi, amen."

Madame Magloire didn't remember kneeling. She barely remembered standing up. What she did remember, though, was the amazing power of forgiveness, and she could barely think to ask it for herself.

Monsigneur Bienvenu smiled. "And now I think it's time for supper."

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