I suppose you have to write your letter yet ?" Percy nodded.
"I did half of it this morning," he said, "but I felt I wanted another bird's-eye view before I could understand properly: I am so grateful to you for giving it me.

It is really a great labour, this daily letter to the Cardinal-Protector.

I am thinking of resigning if I am allowed." "My dear father, don't do that.

If I may say so to your face, I think you have a very shrewd mind; and unless Rome has balanced information she can do nothing.

I don't suppose your colleagues are as careful as yourself." Percy smiled, lifting his dark eyebrows deprecatingly.
"Come, father," he said.
* * * * * The two priests parted at the steps of the corridor, and Percy stood for a minute or two staring out at the familiar autumn scene, trying to understand what it all meant.