But it was the greatest building that I had ever
seen, and, moreover, of stone throughout, which seemed wonderful to me.
And there, too, Wulfhere showed me the thorn tree which sprang from the
staff of the blessed Joseph of Arimathea, which flowers on Christmas
Day, ever.
Then we came to the nunnery where we should leave Alswythe, and I, for
my part, was sorry that the journey was over, sad though it had been in
many ways, for when I must leave her I knew not how long it should be,
if ever, before I saw her again.
And I think the same thought was in her heart, for, when Wulfhere showed
her the great house, she sighed, looking at me a little, and I could say
nothing. But she began to thank us two for our care of her, as though we
could have borne to take less than we had. And her words were so sweet
and gracious that even the old warrior could not find wherewith to
answer her, and we both bowed our heads in thanks, and rode, one on each
side of her, in silence.
Then she must ask Wulfhere what he would do when she was safely
bestowed. And that was a plain question he could answer well.
"Truly, lady, if you will give me leave, I would see Heregar, our
master, through whatever comes of his messages."
Then was I very glad, and the more that, though I might not think myself
such, the old warrior would call me his master, for that told me that he
had full belief in me.
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