THE term apostate is a harsh one to apply to one's self, and I must confess I do not half like the look of it when I have it down in black and white. Truth must be told, however, and I know very well that long before my story is ended the Catholic reader will have no qualms about the application of the word, so I may as well anticipate the verdict. How I came to fall away from the faith of my ancestors is at times a marvel to myself, although when I have traced the course of my apostasy, my readers will find it all so natural as to excite no surprise in them. The same causes have, doubtless, produced, and will again produce, the same effects in those who voluntarily thrust themselves into temptation, when far away from the healthful influences and the salutary restraints that made their home-life virtuous and happy. For their benefit, then, I will do violence to my proud heart and tear open the festering wounds which Time, the great healer, has partially closed.