He talked awhile with a labouring serf, who told him that the plague had broken out in Arpinum, where, during the last week or two, many had died.

From his steward he had already heard the same news, but without heeding it; it now alarmed him, and for some hours fear had a wholesome effect upon his thoughts.

In the coolness following upon the storm, he enjoyed a long, tranquil sleep.

And this day he did not see Veranilda.
A mile or two down the valley was a church, built by Marcian's grandfather, on a spot where he had been saved from great peril; the land attached to it supported two priests and certain acolytes, together with a little colony of serfs.

On his ride this morning Marcian had passed within view of the church, and would have gone thither but for his rain drenched clothing.