But I will promise you a safe couch, though it is a hard one; the softest beds are not always the freest from danger.

In the mean time, tarry here until I have said some prayers." "But my horse," interposed Gilbert.
His companion rang a small bell.

A benevolent-looking man, somewhat past the prime of life, plainly dressed in a black cassock, answered the call.

The priest conversed awhile with him, in an undertone, and then, ascertaining from Gilbert where his horse was, dismissed the attendant, remarking that the animal should not suffer.
Motioning Gilbert to a chair, the priest entered the sanctuary.

Instead of sitting down, the young noble leaned against a lancet window which commanded a view of the neighboring castle.