The fact that already he had run some risk on account of Father Urban only made Cuthbert the more anxious to help him in whatever manner might best conduce to his well being and comfort.

He looked full at his interlocutor, and said: "Whatever I may with honour and right do for Father Urban shall not be lacking.

I owe him my life.

I can never grudge any service for him, be it great or small." "Well spoken, my boy," answered the bookseller, with his calm, penetrating smile.

"May the blessed saints long preserve untainted that true nobility of soul." Cuthbert spent a restless day, wondering what mission the priest had for him, and whether his uncle would be angry at him for meddling in any such matters.