He sat immovable; yet the rubies on his breast glittered continuously, like so many eager, fiery eyes.
The Bishop went on, speaking rapidly, the faggot-fork still in his hand, his face turned to the fire.
"They had lifted Mary Antony down, and were crowding round Icon, patting and praising him, when a message came from the Reverend Mother, bidding Brother Philip to bring the palfrey into the courtyard; the nuns to remain in the field.
"They watched the beautiful creature pace through the archway and disappear, and none knew quite what would happen next.

Philip heard them discussing it later.
"Some thought the Bishop had sent for his palfrey.

Others, that the Reverend Mother had feared for the safety of the old lay-sister; or, lest her brave example should fire the rest to be too venturesome.

Yet all eyes were turned toward the archway, vaguely expectant.
"And then---- "They heard the hoofs of Icon ring on the flagstones of the courtyard.
"They heard the calm voice of the Prioress.

Could it be she who was coming?
"Out from the archway, into the sunshine, alone and fearless; the Prioress rode upon Icon.