"We'll talk about the Book after." But the old man's calm had been disturbed.

With unexpected strength he raised one thin hand and pushed the spoon aside, spilling the contents on the bed.
"How can I leave it ?" he exclaimed.

"How can I go and leave the Book unguarded ?" Again his lips twitched and a feverish brightness flickered in his eyes as they searched his nephew's face.
"When I go, John," he added, excitedly, "the Book may be in your keeping for hours--perhaps for a whole night.

I know the Arch-Councillor will answer my summons immediately; but it is possible he may be delayed.

It may be the ordination of the Unknown that I should Pass before he arrives.