The step now
taken--that of leaving the Cloister and coming to me--had perforce to
be done quickly, if done at all. But, now it is safely accomplished,
there is no further need for haste. The wings of my swift desire shall
be dipt to suit thine inclination."
Hugh paused, looking upon her with a half-wistful smile. She made no
answer; so presently he continued.
"I have planned that, each day, Mistress Deborah, with the baggage and
a good escort, shall go by the most direct route, and the best road.
Thus thou and I will be free to ride as we will, visiting places we
have known of old and which it may please thee to see again. To-day we
can ride out by Kenilworth, and so on our first stage northward.
Martin will take Mistress Deborah on a pillion behind him. Should she
weary of travelling so, she can have a seat in the cart with the
baggage. But they tell me she travels bravely on horseback. We will
send them on ahead of us, and on arrival all will be in readiness for
thee. If this weather holds, we shall ride each day through a world of
sunshine and beauty; and each day's close, my wife, will find us one
day nearer home. Does this please thee? Have I thought of all?"
Rising, she came and stood beside him in the entrance to the arbour.
A golden rose, dipping from above, rested against her hair.
Her eyes were soft with tears.
"So perfectly have you thought and planned, dear faithful Knight, that
I think our blessed Lady must have guided you.
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