“I have found it is surprisingly difficult to remain sad when a cat is doing its level best to sandpaper one's cheeks.”

“I blew that clay pigeon to smithereens. I don't know why Mum got so upset. According to Uncle Andrew she's a crack shot herself. But she says I'm too young. What I'd like to know is how old does a person have to be before they get to do all the fun stuff?”

“I feel Him kiss my brow, a chill weight on my forehead. In the kiss is absolution, yes, but understanding as well. Understanding that it is He I serve, not the convent. His divine spark lives within me, a presence that will never leave. And I am but one of the many tools he has at his disposal. If I cannot act--if I refuse to act--that is a choice I am allowed to make. He has given me life, and all I must do to serve Him is live. Fully and with my whole heart.”

“This is what I want to be. An instrument of mercy, not vengeance.”

“You love me?""Yes, you great lummox. I love you."He lets out a sigh. "Sweet Camulos! It's about time.”

“I will sit here but an hour or two, then leave."I yawn. "So very long as that?"When he answers, there is a wry note in his voice. "I do have my reputation to protect.”

“I cannot tell her I have been moping over a broken heart when I have worked so hard to convince her I have no heart at all.”