'Time enough for our business afterwards.' But Marcian could not postpone what he had to say.

Begging the bishop's patience, he told how all day long he had been followed by certain horsemen from Rome, who assuredly were sent to track him.

His servant, he added, was watching for their entrance into the town, and would observe where they lodged.

This, the bishop admitted, was a matter of some gravity.
'Your guard is ready,' he said.

'Six stout fellows on good horses.