‘Well,’ he said, ‘he is your father, and, such as he appears, no figure of my conjuring. I have asked no questions of you, Joan, have I?’
‘No, Brion.’
‘Nor must, of that other, that villain suitor, I suppose?’
‘Nay, do not, I prithee. It were my shame to clepe him.’
The boy sighed:—
‘Well, we are together yet!’ And so for long time they sat in silence, their arms linked about one another, innocence in their caresses, since a common emotion had broken down the last reserves between them. Presently Joan spoke:—
‘You will always be my true knight, Brion?’
‘On my soul, Joan.’
‘Then, whatever may part us now, we shall keep one in love and faith?’
‘Why do you talk of parting? You are not going to leave me?’