Basil remained standing in the same spot, his eyes cast down, till a quick step announced the captain's return.

Venantius came close up to him, and spoke in a grave but not unfriendly voice: 'The priest has told me what he saw, but will not say more.

I ask you nothing, lord Basil.

You will make your defence to the king.' 'Be it so.' 'My men must rest for an hour,' continued Venantius.

'We shall ride this afternoon as far as Aquinum, and there pass the night.