His independence and honest English pride revolted against any attempt to coerce him in his domestic arrangements, or to submit to interference there, even from the ministers of the Church.
But it was needful to walk warily, and the prior was watching him as a cat does a mouse.
"Will you give me a few days to consider this matter ?" he asked, in as easy a tone as he could.

"Your reverence knows that changes are not of themselves welcome to me; and my sons have made such progress with Brother Emmanuel that I am something loath to part with him.

Also, they are at this moment going through a course of study which none other could conclude with the same advantage.
Brother Fabian is doubtless an excellent brother of his order, but he has scarce the same learning as Brother Emmanuel.

Nevertheless, I will well consider the change proposed, and give it all dutiful heed.

But I should like to speak with my wife anent the matter, and learn her will.