‘An apt and ready pupil,’ she interposed, with meaning.
‘I rejoice to hear it. You will now, if you please, be my pupil—for a short time only. You have much to learn, and but a brief space to learn it in before we proceed upon the Mission of which you know. Will you leave Lord Chester with me, my dear?’
The Professor left them alone.
‘Sit down, my lord. I would first ask you a few questions.’
He questioned the young man with great care; ascertained that he knew already, having been taught in these late days by the Professor, the most important points of ancient history; that he was fully acquainted with his own pedigree, and what it meant; that he was filled with indignation and shame at the condition of his country; that he was ready to throw off the restraints and prejudices of Religion, and eager to become the Leader of the ‘Great Revolt,’ if he only knew how to begin.
‘But,’ said Lord Chester, stammering and confused, ‘I shall want help—direction—even words. If the Professor——’ he looked about in confusion.
‘I will find you the help you want. Look to me, and to those who work with me, for guidance. This is a man’s movement, and must be guided by men alone. Sufficient for the moment that we have in your lordship our true leader, that you will consent to be guided until you know enough to lead—and that you will be with us—to the very death, if that must be.’
‘To the very death,’ replied Lord Chester, holding out his hand.
‘It is well that you should first know,’ the old man went on, ‘who I am, and to what hands you entrust your future. Learn, then, that by secret laying on of hands the ancient Episcopal Order hath been carried on, and continues unto this day. Though there are now but two or three Bishops remaining of the old Church, I am one—the Bishop of London. This library contains the theology of our Church—the works of the Fathers. The Old Faith shall be taught to you—the faith of your wise fathers.’
Lord Chester stared; for the Professor had told him nothing of this.