His acceptance or refusal must be penned before night. The messenger expected to start upon his return journey early on the morrow.
Should he go? Or should he stay?
Was all now well for Mora? Or did she yet need him?
Surely never had Cardinal's hat hung poised for such a reason! How little would the Holy Father dream that a question affecting the happiness or unhappiness of a woman could be a cause of hesitancy.
Presently, with a quick movement, the Bishop lifted his head. The library was far removed from the courtyard; but surely he heard the clatter of horses' hoofs upon the raving stones.
He had hardly hoped for Brother Philip's return until after sunset; yet—with fast riding——
If the Knight's answer were in all respects satisfactory—If Mora's happiness was assured—why, then——
He sounded the silver gong.
His servant entered.
"What horsemen have just now ridden into the courtyard, Jasper?"