CHAPTER IX.
If I know how to manage these affairs, Thus thrust disorderly upon my hands, Never believe me-- Richard II.
It was early in the afternoon of St.Valentine's Day that the prior of the Dominicans was engaged in discharge of his duties as confessor to a penitent of no small importance.

This was an elderly man, of a goodly presence, a florid and healthful cheek, the under part of which was shaded by a venerable white beard, which descended over his bosom.

The large and clear blue eyes, with the broad expanse of brow, expressed dignity; but it was of a character which seemed more accustomed to receive honours voluntarily paid than to enforce them when they were refused.

The good nature of the expression was so great as to approach to defenceless simplicity or weakness of character, unfit, it might be inferred, to repel intrusion or subdue resistance.

Amongst the grey locks of this personage was placed a small circlet or coronet of gold, upon a blue fillet.