Take him for a year on trial, and if you can make a monk of him, do so and welcome.

I recommend a leathern strap, well hardened in the fire, for the purpose of encouraging him to make a beginning in the holy life." "He shall indeed have penance if he need it.

For the good of the soul must the body suffer!" said Abbot William, sententiously.
"Saints' bones and cracklings," muttered Laurence, "this is none so cheerful! But I can always run away if the strap grows overlimber, and then let them catch me if they can.

Sholto will help me." "Fall out!" commanded the Earl, sharply, "and join yourself to the company of the Abbot William.

Come, Malise, we lose our time." Thus was one of our heroes brought into the way of becoming a learned and holy clerk.