In vain were offers of reward multiplied; nor bribe nor entreaty could avail. Paslew then left him, threatening to extract by force what milder measures had failed to elicit. He had that morning despatched a messenger to the rebel chiefs at Doncaster with an explanation of the accident, likewise with an assurance
of his good wishes to the cause; but still he delayed to go in person, or to send his quota of levies.
True, however, to his threats, if not to his promises, towards the close of the day he again visited the dungeon. He was accompanied by two grim attendants, whom he ordered to wait outside until their services should be required.
Ralph was striding lustily, and with evident impatience, over the damp floor; yet he scarcely seemed to notice the entrance of the abbot.
"How now!—Hast had aught, by way of special discovery, touching the name thou hadst forgotten this morning?"
"Yes, I have had a notable discovery therein," said Ralph, still holding on his pace diagonally, as heretofore.
"And may we graciously participate in the result? Doubtless 'tis a comfortable and happy revelation," said the abbot.
"'Tis to beware of three most unlucky things, persons, or properties, I trow,—to wit, a parson's maid, a prior's sow, and an abbot's dinner."
"And what lack they in thy honest esteem?"
"A parson's maid lacks honesty,—a prior's sow a litter,—and an abbot's dinner lacks me!"