While the Franciscans were busied with their punctual offices and asked nothing of each fresh day but that it should be as prayerful as the last, he found a rebellious unbelief rising in his heart.

He was travelling roads no Christian had ever trod, on a wild-goose errand, while his comrades were winning fame in the battle-front.

Alas! that a bright sword should rust in these barrens! But with the uplands peace crept into his soul and some of the mystery of his journey.

It was a brave venture, whether it failed or no, for he had already gone beyond the pale even of men's dreams.

The face of Louis hovered before him.