Edred caught the enthusiasm of that look, and half unconsciously sank down upon his knee.
"Bless me, even me also, O my father!" he cried, scarce knowing what words he chose; and the thin, strong hand was laid upon his head.
"God be with thee and bless thee, my son," said the monk, in grave, steadfast tones; "and may He be thy guide and thy portion henceforth and forever.

May He show thee the way in which He would have thee to go, and give thee grace and strength to follow it unto the end." For a moment deep silence prevailed.

Both were rapidly reviewing the words that day spoken, and the thoughts suggested by the bare discussion of such subjects; and Edred, rising and looking with a strange smile into the monk's face, said softly: "Methinks it would not be hard to die in a righteous cause; but to be hunted to death through the spite and malice of a treacherous foe, that would be an evil fate.

I would fight with the best member I possess against such an one, were he to be mine own enemy or thine." A smile crossed Brother Emmanuel's face.
"Go to, boy! thou art more soldier than monk yet.

Methinks thou wouldst fight bravely and well in a good cause.