"You are sure of that ?" "I am sure of it," answered Arthur; "and Dr.Higdon, the dean, will tell you the same, if your Eminence will ask him of it.

And though Master Clarke lies under the imputation of heresy, I trow there is no sounder churchman nor godly and pure-living man in all Oxford than he, nor one whose life holds so fair a promise of shining like a light in a dark world." "I have heard of this man," spoke the cardinal thoughtfully; "I have known of him many years.

I had report of him or ever he was sent to Oxford." "It is known in all Oxford how that your Eminence did send to us there this godly man, whom we have learned to love and revere," spoke Arthur eagerly; "and many a time have we blessed you that your choice did fall upon one of so saint-like a walk in this world.

How should we, then, not plead with your Eminence for his life, when it lies thus in jeopardy?
If you would speak the word of release we would do the rest." The cardinal sat very still and thoughtful.
"John Clarke is not my prisoner.

He belongs to the Bishop of Lincoln." "I know that well," cried Arthur eagerly.