A. “Because I see no connection that they have with the matter in question.”
“None in the least,” said the old stranger, who still kept by their side.
When the king heard that the answers of the two women were so exactly similar, though the one was examined before the other was brought in, he said,—“This is some infernal combination; they are all of them witches, and their friend there is some warlock or wizard; and they shall all be burnt at the stake together before the going down of the sun.”
“It is a judgment worthy of such a monarch,” said the stranger.
“Father Rubely,” said the king, “you who know all the men in this part of my dominions, Do you know any thing of this old man, who refuseth to give account of himself?”
“I have often seen the face,” said Rubely; “but I cannot tell at present from whence he is.—Pray, sir, are you not he who has supplied the monastery with cattle for these many moons?”
“I am the same,” said the stranger; “And were they not the best that ever were furnished to the Abbey?”
“They were,” said Rubely.
“Were they not exquisite and delicious above all food ever before tasted?” said the old man.