He could not have explained why, but somehow the only hope for Hugh seemed to be connected with this spot.
Yet it was hardly reassuring that, when he lifted grave and anxious eyes, our Lady gently smiled, and the sweet Babe looked merry.
Rising, the Bishop turned, with unwonted sternness, to the Prioress.
"Remember," he said, "Hugh rides away to-morrow night; rides away, never to return." Her steadfast eyes did not falter.
"He had better have ridden away five days ago, my lord.

He had my answer, and I bade him go.

By staying he has but prolonged his suspense and my pain." "Yes," said the Bishop slowly, "he had better have ridden away; or, better still, have never come upon this fruitless quest." He moved toward the door.
The Prioress reached it before him.
With her hand upon the latch: "Your blessing, Reverend Father," entreated the Prioress, rather breathlessly.
"_Benedicite_," said the Bishop, with uplifted fingers, but with eyes averted; and passed out..