earnt much from a wise old Eastern leech
When I was out in Palestine.

PRIORESS

I have heard
They have great powers and magic remedies;
They can restore youth to the withered frame.

ELINOR

There is only one thing that they cannot do.

PRIORESS

And what?

ELINOR

They cannot raise the dead.

PRIORESS

Ah, no;
I am most glad to hear you say it, most glad
To know we think alike. That is most true--
Yes--yes--most true; for God alone, dear friend,
Can raise the dead!

[_A bell begins tolling slowly._]

The bell for even-song!
You have not long to wait.

[_Shadowy figures of nuns pass the windows and enter the chapel.
The sunset deepens._]

Will you not pray
With me?

[_The PRIORESS and QUEEN ELINOR kneel down together before a
little shrine. Enter the NOVICE._]

NOVICE

There is a forester at the door.
Mother, I think 'tis he!

PRIORESS

[_Rising._]

Admit him, then.

ELINOR

Leave me: I will keep praying till he comes.

PRIORESS

You are trembling! You are not afraid?

ELINOR

[_With eyes closed as in strenuous devotion._]

No; no;
Leave me, I am but praying!

[_A chant swells up in the chapel. Exit PRIORESS. ELINOR continues
muttering as in prayer. Enter ROBIN HOOD,
steadying himself on his bow, weak and white. She
rises and passes between him and the door to confront
him._]

ELINOR

Ah, Robin, you have come to me at last
For healing. Pretty Marian cannot help you
With all her kisses.

ROBIN HOOD

[_Staring at her wildly._]

You! I did not know
That you were here. I did not ask your help.
I must go--Marian!

[_He tries to reach the door, but reels in a half faint on the way.
ELINOR supports him as he pauses, panting for breath._]

ELINOR

Robin, your heart is hard,
Both to yourself and me. You cannot go,
Rejecting the small help which I can give
As if I were a leper. Ah, come back.
Are you so unforgiving? God forgives!
Did you not see me praying for your sake?
Think, if you thi