No one, to look at the three boys, would have guessed them to be greatly interested in the proceedings.

They remained standing in the background, with an air of quiet respect and submission appropriate to the young in presence of their spiritual superiors.

The prior, as his keen eye travelled over the faces in the hall, never suspected for a moment that those three quiet lads knew aught of this matter.

But, pleased by their air and bearing, he called them to him and asked them some questions, to assure himself that they had been properly taught by the recalcitrant monk whom now he had resolved to find and to punish for his rebellion and temerity.
The boys replied with such ready intelligence and so much actual learning that he could not but be pleased with them.

Edred, in particular, showed such readiness and aptitude that the prior was surprised, and laying a kindly hand upon the boy's head, asked him how soon they would be welcoming him at Chadwater.
The youth looked up with grave, thoughtful eyes.
"I know not that, my father.