IV
In the gloom they knelt before this unanointed Priest of Jehovah.
His office sat upon that white old man, native to him as his soul.
He spread his great-knuckled hands above them, a patriarch, a prophet, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God.
"God bless you, sir—and you, Master Kit—and you, Boy Hoad." He drew his hand across his mouth.
"So be. Amen," he added solemnly.
"Amen," said they all.
The Parson rose.
He gripped the old man's hand.
Blob he patted on the back.
"Kit," he said, and, drawing the boy towards him, kissed him.