‘That is correct. The archives are kept in this very building. They contain a wealth of material from the establishment of the diocese in 1850 to the present day, including information on our clergy, both living and deceased. It’s possible the initials MB may not be the initials relating to the nun’s birth name, however.’

‘Father Floridia did explain the complications concerning the initials,’ Jane said. ‘Would it be possible for me to visit the archives and look through the records?’

‘Of course. However, it might be quicker if I spoke with our archivist, Bree Parkin. She has extensive knowledge and is experienced in searching the records for all sorts of things.’

‘That would be very helpful,’ Jane replied.

The bishop held up the photograph of the engraved cross. ‘Could I keep this to show Mrs Parkin?’

‘Certainly.’ Jane recalled what Barnes had said about using the question of the land being consecrated as a cover, and explained about the sale of the Sisters of Mercy convent in the mid-sixties to a building developer.

‘I remember hearing about it at the time,’ the bishop said. ‘It’s always sad when a convent that does so much for orphaned and destitute children has to close.’

‘The developer is adamant his solicitors told him there was no consecrated ground when he purchased the land. I have told them to stop all digging work until we can ascertain if this is correct.’

The bishop nodded. ‘His solicitors would have liaised with the diocesan solicitors regarding the purchase of the convent and completed a “petition for faculty”, which is required before any development or reconstruction work can commence on consecrated land or buildings.’

‘So once that’s granted, the land and buildings are officially deconsecrated?’ Jane asked.

Meade smiled. ‘Not quite. In basic terms, deconsecrating is the act of removing a religious blessing from something that was previously consecrated by a priest or bishop. In respect of a church, anything which has been blessed and dedicated to the use of God must be removed: the crucifix, the vestments, the stations of the cross, holy water and so on . . .’

‘Would the petition cover moving the remains of any convent nuns or other bodies to another graveyard?’ Jane asked.

‘No. A further “faculty” would need to be granted by the bishop of the diocese for any exhumations to take place. If a body lies in consecrated ground, disinterment – without a faculty – is an offence under ecclesiastical law and the 1857 Burial Act.’

‘Would the archives have a record of any consecrated ground on the old convent site?’

‘I am aware the archives hold material relating to finance and property, so there may well be records regarding the sale of the old convent. I’ll ask Mrs Parkin to look into that as well,’ the bishop said.

‘Thank you. I don’t wish to appear rude, but do you know how long it might take to get a result?’