have thee to go, and give thee grace and strength to follow it unto
the end."

For a moment deep silence prevailed. Both were rapidly reviewing
the words that day spoken, and the thoughts suggested by the bare
discussion of such subjects; and Edred, rising and looking with a
strange smile into the monk's face, said softly:

"Methinks it would not be hard to die in a righteous cause; but to
be hunted to death through the spite and malice of a treacherous
foe, that would be an evil fate. I would fight with the best member
I possess against such an one, were he to be mine own enemy or
thine."

A smile crossed Brother Emmanuel's face.

"Go to, boy! thou art more soldier than monk yet. Methinks thou
wouldst fight bravely and well in a good cause. Perchance that
would be the best and happiest lot for thee--

"There be thy brothers coming up from the water. Go join them, and
think not too much for thy years. Be a youth as long as thou
mayest. Manhood's cares will come all too fast."

With that he turned and went quietly towards the house, whilst
Edred went forth to meet his brothers.



Chapter IV: The Travelling Preacher.