It cannot be for pastime that this man Follows me thus. See how he eyes my hands!

Good brother--or, perhaps I should say, father!

FRIAR.

No, brother; a lay brother, at your service.

TEMPLAR.

Well, brother, then, if I had anything-- But truly I have nothing----

FRIAR.

Thanks the same!

G.o.d will reward your purpose thousandfold.

The will and not the deed perfects the giver.

Nor was I sent to follow you for alms.

TEMPLAR.

Sent?

FRIAR.

From the convent.

TEMPLAR.

Where I even now Was hoping to partake a pilgrim's fare.

FRIAR.

'Tis meal--time now, the tables all are full; But if it please you, we will turn together.

TEMPLAR.

No matter, though I have not tasted meat For many days; these dates, you see, are ripe.

FRIAR.

Be sparing of that fruit, sir, for too much Is hurtful, sours the blood, and makes one sad.

TEMPLAR.

And what if sadness suits me? Though, methinks, 'Twas not to give this warning that you came.

FRIAR.

Oh, no! my mission was to question you-- To feel your pulse a little.

TEMPLAR.

And you tell This tale yourself?

FRIAR.

Why not?

TEMPLAR.

An artful soul! (_aside_).

And has the convent many more like you?

FRIAR.

I know not. Mere obedience is my duty.

TEMPLAR.

And you obey without much questioning.

FRIAR.

Could it be rightly termed obedience else?

TEMPLAR.

The simple mind is ever in the right.--(_aside_).

But will you not inform me who it is That wishes to know more of me? Not you, I dare be sworn.

FRIAR.

Would such a wish become Or profit me?

TEMPLAR.

Whom would it then become Or profit to be thus inquisitive?

FRIAR.

Perhaps the Patriarch--'twas he that sent.

TEMPLAR.

The Patriarch? and does he know my badge So ill?--The red cross on the snow-white robe.

FRIAR.

Why? I know that.