It seemed closer here than in the courtyard even, and every one was watching the sky and speaking in a low voice.

Each sound seemed over loud, and overhead the hot haze brooded without sign of breaking.
The king's chaplain came out, and a lay brother brought him his mule.

He looked at it as I had looked at my horse just now, and his brow knitted.

He was rather a friend of mine.
"Father," I said, "there is somewhat strange in the air.

Look at all the beasts; they feel more than we can." He nodded to me gravely.