“Madam is sullen; she does not repent. Humility is good in a woman. It seems then that I must play the father to this poor fool of a monk; there are many ways of opening a man’s eyes. Supposing, Mistress Dale, you were given the chance of saving this man’s life, by making a sacrifice such as many women make with resignation, even with joy——”
She caught his meaning, and the blood seemed to congeal in her heart. She felt cold, so cold that she shivered.
“Did God make you?” she said, hanging her head.
He laughed.
“He chose a fine sire and a handsome woman, madam, and I myself am considered a presentable man. Even you may grant that I have my points, if I chose to prove them.”
The power of speech died in her.
“Consider awhile. You shall be left in peace for an hour.”
He swept his red hat to her, and moved backwards through the bracken to where John Rich stood biting his beard.
“Well, have you done?”
“I have but begun, good John; this wine is to my liking.”