Page:Zodiac stories by Blanche Mary Channing.pdf/231

214 Brother Trophimus, a young monk who opened the door to visitors, trembled at the gaze of the august traveller.

"I come on a mission to this house," said the stranger. "Take, me to thy ruler."

His voice was like his face.

Brother Trophimus bowed low, and led the way to the Abbot's study. The stranger passed, in without asking leave, and the door was shut.

An hour passed. Brother Trophimus was summoned to his Superior's presence, and he started as he perceived how great a change had come over the Abbot's round, complacent face.

"Let the brethren, presently be gathered together in the chapel," said the Abbot.

"Let not one of them be absent," added the guest from the other end of the room, in a tone deep and musical as the vesper bell.