Let it pass----" But ere the last word was out of his lips, Fitzosborne had fallen on his knees before the Duke, and, clasping his hand, exclaimed, while the tears rolled down his swarthy cheek, "Pardon, pardon, my liege! when thou speakest thus my heart melts.

What thou willest, that will I! Church or Pope, no matter.

Send me to Flanders; I will bring back thy bride." The slight smile that curved William's lip, showed that he was scarce worthy of that sublime weakness in his friend.

But he cordially pressed the hand that grasped his own, and said, "Rise; thus should brother speak to brother." Then--for his wrath was only concealed, not stifled, and yearned for its vent--his eye fell upon the delicate and thoughtful face of the priest, who had watched this short and stormy conference in profound silence, despite Taillefer's whispers to him to interrupt the dispute.

"So, priest," he said, "I remember me that when Mauger before let loose his rebellious tongue thou didst lend thy pedant learning to eke out his brainless treason.