This had always been a signal between them in their childhood, and many had been their nocturnal rambles taken together when Cuthbert had contrived to escape from the house before it was locked up, and had then called Petronella and assisted her down by the tangled ivy that clung to the gray old walls.

He knew she would recognize in a moment who was outside when she heard the tapping of that hazel wand; and it seemed indeed as if she did, for in a moment the window was opened, and a soft tremulous voice asked eagerly: "Cuthbert, can it be thou ?" "It is indeed I, sweet sister.

Canst thou come to me?
Hast thou lost thy cunning or thy lightness of foot?
I am here to help thee." "I will come to thee anon; but the little postern door is seldom locked since thou art gone, and I can get out thus.

Linger not beside the house, Cuthbert; speed to the chantry--I will meet thee there.

He might hear or see thee here.