“I did,” said the monk. “And kindly remember not to call me ‘boss.’ Father Benedict is a more respectful term.”
“That’s a laugh,” rejoined Winkey rudely. “What did you call me for?”
“Look out the window and see for yourself.”
“Footprints!”
“Going away from the monastery,” Father Benedict added. “That girl has run off again! This time when she gets back, see that she is punished.”
The command seemed to startle the gateman for he asked dubiously: “You don’t mean—”
“I do.” The monk’s words dropped like chips of steel. “The usual punishment.”
“But ain’t it a little harsh for a girl? She’s only a kid—”
“Only a kid!” Father Benedict’s voice rose in mockery. “From the hour we came here she has been a thorn in my side. If it hadn’t been for her interference, we would have been away from here yesterday!”
“Okay, if those are your orders. Are you sure the girl has skipped?”