"Alone," was the reply, in a deep hoarse voice.
"My brother, leave us till I touch the bell," said the Abbot, pointing to a small handbell which stood on the table.
The infirmarer departed.
"And now, my son, what hast thou to tell me? First, who art thou? and whence?"
"I am in sanctuary here, and none can drag me hence; is it not so?"
"It is, my son, unless thou hast committed such crime as sacrilege, which God forbid."
"Such crime can none lay to my charge. Tell me, father, dost thou think it wrong for a man to slay those who have deprived him of his loved ones, of all that made life worth living?"
"'Vengeance is Mine,' saith God."
"Well, I took mine into my own hand, and now my task is ended. I am assured that I am a cripple, never to strike a fair blow again."
"The more time for repentance, the better for thy soul. Thou hast not yet told me thy name and home?"