"On the contrary--" "Shall we," interposed the Master, "agree to retain the service on the understanding that I am willing to hear any reasonable plea for non-attendance?
I need hardly say, my lord, that visiting the sick would rank with me before any formal observance; and," he added, with the hint of a smile which Brother Copas caught, "even to less Christian excuses I might conceivably be willing to listen." So, piece by piece, the truce was built up.

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When the petitioners had thanked his lordship and withdrawn, and Mr.Simeon, having gathered up his notes, presently followed them out, the Bishop, the Master, and the Chaplain sat for half an hour talking together.
The time came for Mr.Colt to take his leave, being due at a Pageant rehearsal.