Dalfin thanked him, and after he had heard, he paid no more heed to us, but turned to our guide.
"Brother Phelim," he said wearily, "see you to all that may be done.

The care must be yours, as was the first welcome.

I do not know why you wandered so far at this hour." "Because I thought there might be poor folk in need, father," said Phelim meekly.

"Moreover, I am shepherd today." The old man waved his hand as if to say that the excuse was enough, and with that turned and went his way, leaning on the arm of the other ancient brother, the three who had stood behind them making way reverently.
"He is our superior," whispered Phelim.

"He has been here for forty years.