See you, my brother, have ever brethren loved each other as we do?
And now must the shadow of a woman fall upon and blight that love which is so fair and precious ?" "Why so ?" asked Wulf.

"Come, Godwin, let us make a pact that it shall not be thus, and keep it by the help of heaven.

Let us show the world that two men can love one woman and still love each other, not knowing as yet which of them she will choose--if, indeed, she chooses either.

For, Godwin, we are not the only gentlemen whose eyes have turned, or yet may turn, towards the high-born, rich, and lovely lady Rosamund.

Is it your will that we should make such a pact ?" Godwin thought a little, then answered: "Yes; but if so, it must be one so strong that for her sake and for both our sakes we cannot break it and live with honour." "So be it," said Wulf; "this is man's work, not child's make-believe." Then Godwin rose, and going to the door, bade his squire, who watched without, pray the Prior John to come to them as they sought his counsel in a matter.