Then Roger grasped that strong, uplifting hand, and stood upon his feet, yet spake he no word; and presently they went on along the road together.
And Roger's habit was stained with dust, and on his cheek the mark of bitter tears—but his head was high and manfully uplifted.
CHAPTER LII
HOW THEY HAD NEWS OF WALKYN
Now went they in silence again for that Beltane dreamed of many things while Roger marvelled within himself, oft turning to look on my Beltane's radiant face, while ever his wonder grew; so oft did he turn thus to gape and stare that Beltane, chancing to meet his look, smiled and questioned him, thus:
"Why gape ye on me so, Roger man?"
"For wonder, master."
"Wherefore?"
"To see thee so suddenly thyself again—truly Saint Cuthbert is a potent saint!"
"And thou a sturdy pray-er, good Roger."