He hardly heard the prodigal's farewell.
"If you wish to speak with me, stay here until I return."
This Sergius said when the two passed out of the cell. Going down the darkened passage, he glanced behind him, and saw the Greek outside the door; and when he came back with the Hegumen's breakfast, and reentered the apartment, he brushed by him still on the outside. At the cot, Sergius offered the refreshment on his knees, and in that posture waited while his superior partook of it; for he discerned how the aged heart was doubly stricken—once for the Church, deserted by so many of its children, and again for himself, forsaken by his own son.
"What happiness to me, O Sergius, wert thou of my flesh and blood!"
The expression covered every feeling evoked by the situation. Afterwhile another of the Brotherhood appeared, permitting Sergius to retire.
"I am ready to hear you now," he said, to the Greek at the door.
"Let us to your cell then."
In the cell, Sergius drew forth the one stool permitted him by the rules of the Brotherhood.
"Be seated," he said.
"No," the visitor returned, "I shall be brief. You do not know my father. The St. James' should relieve him of active duty. His years are sadly enfeebling him."