The monk must have been aware also that he was betraying the secret
of this approach to a Norman; but strangely enough, he did not seem
to trouble about it at this juncture.
"Father," said Etienne, "I would fain ask thee one question before
we part."
"Speak on, my son."
"I would fain know, father, what murderous hand gave thy abbey to
the flames--a deed abhorred by all good men, whether Normans or
English."
"Thou dost not know then?"
"Surely not, father."
"I may not tell thee whom all suspect; it is better for thy peace
of mind that it should remain a mystery till God solve the riddle."
"Thou mayst not tell how Wilfred escaped either," added Etienne,
who in his heart thought that the outlaws had fired the place and
released him from his imposed penance.
"On all these points my lips are sealed. Perhaps in God's own time
thou wilt learn the truth."
"Then I may not act as a mediator between my father and his
fugitive vassals?"
"Not under present circumstances. There is a dark mystery, which
God in His mercy hides from thee."
They had now gained a slight elevation, and could see the tops of
the trees below them for miles, including a portion of the swamp.
"Father, how full the woods are of smoke: look, it is rolling in
great billows over the tree tops.
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