After this rest, the beautiful Whitsuntide Matins was said in the fair forest church, and before six o'clock this strange and blessed festival had ended, though not the peace and thankfulness in the hearts of the little flock.
Indeed, instead of a sermon, Dr. Eales's parting words were "And he went in the strength of that meat forty days and forty nights."
CHAPTER XVI. A FAIR OFFER.
"We be content," the keepers said,
"We three and you no less,
Then why should we of you be afraid,
As we never did transgress."
ROBIN HOOD BALLAD.
Steadfast was busy weeding the little patch of barley that lay near the ruins of the old farm house with little Ben basking round him. The great carefulness as to keeping the ground clear had been taught him by his father, and was one reason why his fields, though so small, did not often bear a bad crop. He heard his name called over the hedge, and looking up saw the Squire, Mr. Elmwood, on horseback.
He came up, respectfully taking off his hat and standing with it in his hand as was then the custom when thus spoken to. "What is this I hear, Kenton," said the squire, "that you have been having a prelatist service on your ground?"
Steadfast was dismayed, but did not speak, till Mr. Elmwood added, "Is it true?"
"Yes, sir," he answered resolutely.
"Did you know it was against the law to use the Book of Common Prayer?"