He was followed by a servant, who laid down a bulky parcel and departed.
"Ah, friend Dalaber," spoke Cole, with a kindly grip of the hand, "it was told me you were moving into fresh quarters here, and methought a few plenishings might not come amiss to your lodgings.
You are something of an anchorite in your method of living, Anthony; but this chamber deserves a little adornment, if you are not averse to such." So speaking, Arthur unfastened the package, and there was a soft skin rug to lay before the hearth, where a small fire of wood and fir cones was burning; a gaily striped quilt for the truckle bed covered it up and gave it an air of elegance; and a few books--in those days a costly and valued possession--completed the kindly bequest.
"They tell me you are to prosecute your studies in the law," he said, as he ranged the volumes beside Dalaber's own sparse collection on the shelf; "and since I have trodden the path before you, you are welcome to these volumes, which I seldom refer to now, and can always borrow from you if need should arise." "You are a true friend, Arthur," answered Dalaber, much gratified and delighted.

"I thank you heartily.

You are a friend to all, and we owe you much.

It is the more kindly and welcome because you are not one of us in other matters, and might very well have withdrawn from all companionship with those upon whom the wrath of the cardinal is like soon to fall." "I would speak somewhat anent that same matter, Anthony," said Arthur, suddenly turning upon his friend, and signing him to take the seat opposite.

"It is in some sort on that account I have come.
But first tell me--is Thomas Garret safely away ?" Yes; on his way--" "Nay, tell me not that.