Now the labourer had run to the village, and having clad himself in other garments, went himself to meet the priest. And the priest failed to recognise him, but questioned him, saying:
“Tell me, friend—hast seen a labourer on the road?”
“I have seen one, and he ran to the village.”
“Come, friend, aid us in the search.”
“Willingly, little father.”
All four then went in search of the priest’s labourer; they entered the village; they walked; they walked unto eventide; naught befell. Darkness descended. Where might they pass the night?
Anon they came to a house where dwelt a widow, and they begged leave of her to pass the night therein.
“Good people,” replied the widow, “there will be a deluge this night in my house. I warn ye of it beforehand. Ye will be drowned.”
Howbeit, she did not refuse them—indeed, she might not—and she let them enter for the night.
(Now the widow’s lover had promised to visit her that night.)