His one sacrifice for sin--there is the place to seek grace and
guidance; there is the place where peace may be found. Because man
is frail, shall we despise the ordinances of God? Because men are
able to make (if such be their will) a hell upon earth even of holy
places, is that any reason why we shall think scorn of those
sanctuaries, provided by the merciful goodness of God, where men
may flee for shelter from the world, and lead a life of devotion
and fasting and prayer? My son, beware of the manifold snares of
the devil. The young are ever ready to condemn and to revolt. It is
the nature of the unchastened will of man. Be patient, and watch
unto prayer. The day will surely come when (if thou wilt but listen
for it) the voice will speak in thine heart, and tell thee what
thou art called upon to do, even as it spoke in mine, and called me
from the snares and enticements of the world to the haven of the
cloister. I know not yet what my work in this world will be; but it
is enough that my Lord and Master knows. I am here, abiding in my
place and awaiting my call. May He grant that whensoever and
howsoever that call may come, I may hear it and be ready for it,
and may follow the guiding voice even to the end."

A rapt look was in the dark eyes. Edred caught the enthusiasm of
that look, and half unconsciously sank down upon his knee.

"Bless me, even me also, O my father!" he cried, scarce knowing
what words he chose; and the thin, strong hand was laid upon his
head.

"God be with thee and bless thee, my son," said the monk, in grave,
steadfast tones; "and may He be thy guide and thy portion
henceforth and forever. May He show thee the way in which He would