His manner was never one to be disputed, there was an atmosphere of
obedience about the whole monastery, and the Prior added--

'Yes, my children, it is but fitting that you should give thanks in the
church for your unlooked-for deliverance.'

Malcolm was forced to lead Lilias away into the exquisite cross church,
built in the loveliest Early English style, of which a few graceful
remnants still exist. The two young things knelt together hand in hand
in the lornness of their approaching desolation, neither of them having
dared to utter the foreboding upon their hearts, but feeling it all the
more surely; and while the sister's spirit longed fervently after him
whose protection had been only just removed, the brother looked up to the
sheltering vaults, lost in the tranquil twilight, and felt that here
alone was his haven of peace, the refuge for the feeble and the
fatherless.

Their devotions performed, they ventured back to the outer hall, and on
their return being notified, they were again admitted. Sir James, who
had been seated on a stool by the sick man's head, immediately rose and
resigned his place to Lilias, but did not leave the room and Sir David
thus spoke: 'Bairns, God in His mercy hath raised you up the best of
guardians in the stead of your ain poor Tutor. Malcolm, laddie, you will
ride the morn with this gentleman to the true head of your name, your ain
King, whom God for ever bless!' His voice quivered. 'And be it your
study so to profit by his example and nurture, as to do your devoir by
him for ever.'

'Nay, father,' cried Malcolm, 'I cannot leave you and Lily.'