Kit thought him the fairest figure of a man he had ever seen.
The Parson was comely with the comeliness of an apple, this man was beautiful with the beauty of sun and sword in one.
But the boy noticed that there was more of the sword and less of the sun than of old about him.
Was the strain telling on him too?
"Forgive me for disturbing you so early," called the gay voice. "The
Reverend Father was at his devotions doubtless!"
"No, sir," retorted the Parson. "The Reverend Father was watching the
Horse, Foot, and Artillery, pelting down the hill on top o you."
"I've been watching em too," replied the other. "And sorry I am I shan't be here to entertain em—I've a soft place for the soldiers myself. But I'm just off for a day on the water. A pretty morning!"
"Yes; as pretty a morning to hang a play-actor on as ever I saw."
The other waved a hand.
"Ah, but I'm not going to hang you, dear Padre. I have other views for you."