and steadfastness she desired to see in him, but not the reckless
defiance which rushes upon danger and courts martyrdom. She herself
had scarcely known which course her lover would follow, and his
appearance in this quiet and thoughtful mood was a great relief to
her.

"That is how I feel, Anthony," she answered. "Any trial the Lord
sends us we must bear for His sake with all constancy; but even He
Himself was obedient and submissive, and careful in His words and
acts. Let none have cause to accuse us as brawlers, or headstrong,
or enemies to law and order; but yet let us, when the time come, be
found faithful, even unto death."

He took her hand and kissed it, as though to seal the compact.

Chapter VIII: The Fugitive

Meantime, in the darkness of that February morning, Thomas Garret
stepped forth from the sheltering walls of his still-beloved
Oxford, and turned his rapid steps in a southerly and westerly
direction.

His heart was hot within him as he pushed along, choosing the most
unfrequented lanes and paths. This was not the first time he had
been hunted, and he had acquired some of the instincts of the
quarry. He knew how to lie hidden awhile in some sheltered nook,
listening and watching, himself unseen. He knew how to avoid
notice, and how to pass through public places with the quiet air of
confidence which drew no sort of attention towards himself. His
priest's gown and hood would be a protection to him after he had
shaken himself clear of the pursuit which might be set afoot by the
proctors. He had Anthony Dalaber's letter in his wallet, and bread
sufficient for the day's needs. He could fearlessly present himself
at any religious house when he had reached another county, and he
was certain of being well received and cared for by the monks, who
received all travellers kindly, but especially those of the
"household of faith."

He spoke the words half aloud, and then a strange sound broke from
his lips, half a laugh and half a groan.

"The household of faith! O my God! What would they say if they knew
that he who came to them as one of the faithful, was flying an
outcast from the wrath of the cardinal, branded as a dangerous
heretic? O Lord, be with me, and guide me right. Am I not faithful?
Do I not love Thee, O Lord? Am I not sworn to Thy holy service? O
Thou who judgest the hearts of men, and knowest all from the
beginning, teach me what I should speak and do. Teach me whither I
should be