Page:Barr - Friend Olivia.djvu/171

Rh household were in bed. But the baron was not asleep; he heard the gallop of Nathaniel's horse while he was a good way off, and he rose and opened the door and met his son on the threshold. The two men went into the dark house together, and for some minutes were fully occupied in getting a light and in replenishing the fire, for the nights on that bleak coast were generally chill and damp enough to warrant a blazing log.

While they were thus engaged Lady Kelder entered. She was desirous to see that Nathaniel's physical wants were attended to, but she had also an anxious curiosity about the trial. As the baron lifted himself from the hearth, and Nathaniel transferred the blaze from the brimstone-tipped pine sliver to the candle, she said,—

"How went the trial, Nathaniel?"

"As Roger's enemies had preordained, Mother. They have sent him to Appleby jail."

"Indeed, I see not how they could have done different. Magistrates must go upon evidence."

"They sent Asa Bevin there also."

"Like master, like man. I make no doubt Asa was equally guilty."

"Roger put human kindness before human prudence; Asa put the law of God before the commands of Judah Parke. I see no other fault in the men."

"Are you also become a Quaker?"

"I would that my religion were like theirs,—heart-thorough, inside and outside alike. Roger Prideaux is a man who has a perfect heart toward God."

"A perfect heart!" ejaculated the baron in a low voice. "A perfect heart! Oh, finest of wares!"

"And what is done with the girl? Did she give evidence against her father? If she did, I think nothing of her."