“Thou art a sely prophet, lad,” answered John, kindly. “At this time I have no news at all for thee, neither good nor ill, only that Mr Rose giveth no absolute nay, and doth but undertake to think upon the matter, and discourse with Mrs Rose. Is that such ill news, trow?”
“Thank you,” answered Robin in a low voice. “You did your best, I know. Good-night.”
And he lifted his candle and departed. But Isoult thought the lad looked sad and disappointed; and she was sorry for him.
“Well, Jack, how spedst thou?” said she, when Robin was gone.
“Ah, grandmother Eva!” replied Jack, smiling. “Wouldst know all?”
“Now, Jack!” said she, “flout me not for my womanly curiosity, but tell me. I am but a woman.”
“Pure truth, dear heart,” answered he, yet smiling. “Well, I had to await a short space, for I found Thekla with her father, and I could not open the matter afore her. So at last I prayed her of leave (asked her to go) (seeing no other way to be rid of her), for I would speak with Mr Rose privily. Then went she presently away, and I brake Robin’s matter.”
“And what said he?”
“He looked more amazed than thou; and trust me that was no little.”
“But what said he?” repeated Isoult.