“Father, I have found that reference in Origen.”
The Canon’s face, drawn and tired, lightened on the instant.
“My indefatigable searcher after truth! Lucilla indeed casts light into dark places—you were well named, my daughter. That is good news indeed—good news indeed.”
“Should you like me to come down again, or are you too tired?”
“Nay, Lucilla, you heard me bid Adrian to his room. Would you have me transgress my own regulations? That would be inconsistent indeed. We will investigate our Origen tomorrow.”
“You are so near the end of it now, Father.”
“Aye, the work has progressed wonderfully these last few months. And I have been wonderfully blessed in your help, my child—my right hand! It has been a labour of love indeed.”
Lucilla hoped that he would go to his room still cheered by the thought of the book. But the Canon lingered, to enquire sadly:
“You have talked with Adrian?”
“A little.”