but the prospect of
being arrested and charged with heresy or the circulation of
forbidden books was sufficiently unnerving, and the more so to one
whose life seemed opening out so full of promise and crowned with
the blessing of love.

"I must see Freda!" he suddenly exclaimed, as the shades of evening
began to fall. "What does she know of this matter, Fitzjames? has
it reached her ears that I may be in any peril?"

"I trow not; I have told her nothing. She may have heard that the
proctors are seeking Master Garret. I know not. When I came away
this morn nothing was known at the Bridge House; but if she has
heard aught since, she will be anxious for you and for him alike."

"Verily yes, and I will go and show myself, and reassure her,"
cried Dalaber, throwing on his cloak and cap. "I have time enough
and to spare to set my things in order later. I have not seen Freda
for full three days. I must e'en present myself tonight."

"I will go, too," answered Fitzjames; "and let us avoid the city
walls and gates, and take the meadow paths past Durham College and
Austin Friars, for it were best you did not show yourself abroad
too much these next few days. I trust that afterwards all peril
will be at an end."

There was a clear saffron sky above them, and the crescent moon
hung there like a silver lamp. The peace and hush of eventide was
in the air, and fell like a charm upon Dalaber's fevered spirit.
The sound of the angelus bell was heard from several quarters, and
as they passed St. Bernard's Chapel they stepped into the building,
and remained kneeling there a brief while, as the vesper service
was chanted.

Soothed and refreshed, and feeling more in harmony with life and
its surroundings, Dalaber pursued his way, his arm linked in that
of his friend.

Fitzjames was one of those who halted somewhat between two
opinions. He was willing and ready to hear and receive much of that
new teaching which was stirring men's hearts and beginning to
arouse bitter opposition; but he was still one who called himself a
true son of the church, and he had no wish to draw down upon
himself the perils of excommunication and other punishment which
threatened the obstinate heretics. He attended many of John
Clarke's lectures; he discoursed much with Dalaber, for whom he had
a sincere friendship and admiration; but he did not see why there
should be strife and disruption. He thought the church could be
trusted to cleanse herself of he