Page:Tudor Jenks--The defense of the castle.djvu/305

Rh "As soon as it is dark. She will come in by the underground passage," Edgar replied. "I wonder that the Count has not put a guard at the back of the castle, either in boats or on the other shore."

"It does not surprise me." remarked the Friar, "for I have suspected all along that he would be only too glad if the garrison should escape, leaving him to take possession of the castle. I think it is for that reason he has not guarded it. As to relief coming, the Count does not expect a relieving force. He knows that there are few motives that would lead a nobleman to risk a battle for a friend. Besides he is willing to take the chance."

Edgar watched the Friar's painting as he listened; and when the bit of glass was held up again to the window he was surprised to see that it bore the picture of Satan himself, painted in minature [sic] upon the glass, and vividly colored. He started back in horror, but the Friar only smiled, as he said, "Do you recognize the foul fiend? I have given him horns, tail, pitchfork, cloven-foot, and all." Then seeing Edgar's real fright and dismay, the Friar said seriously, "My friend, be of good cheer. This is no idle folly, or thoughtlessness. You must know that I am a student of nature's mysteries, but that I use my knowledge, such as it