hered together at this time to see what may be done. We are
resolved, as thou must surely know, not to suffer like this for
ever. Half the people of the realm be with us. It were strange if
nothing could be accomplished. Cuthbert Trevlyn, answer me this:
thou dost wish us well; thou art not a false friend--one who would
deceive and betray?"

"Never, never, never!" answered Cuthbert, with all the heat of
youth and generous feeling. "I would never betray those who have
trusted me, not though they were my foes. And I too hate and
abominate these iniquitous laws that persecute men's bodies for
what they hold with their minds and souls. I have suffered
persecution myself. I know how bitter a thing it is. I would have
every man free to believe that which his conscience approves. I
would join with any who would implore the King to show mercy and
clemency to his persecuted subjects."

Walter's face relaxed; he looked relieved and pleased.

"Methought that we could trust thee, Cuthbert. Thou art a Trevlyn;
it must needs be thou art stanch. I am right glad that thou art
here. There may be work yet for thee to do. Thou wilt abide in
thine uncle's house until--"

"Until Parliament opens at least," answered Cuthbert quickly. "I
have said as much to him, I would fain be there then and see it
all. And my presence in the forest is known by foes; it is no place
for me longer."

Then breaking off, for he had not meant to say so much, and had no
wish to be further questioned on the subject, he asked in a low
tone:

"Sure it was Father Urban whose face I saw on the stairs but now?"

"Hist! silence!" whispered Walter, with a glance enforcing caution;
"do not breathe that name even within these walls. He is here at
risk of his life; but at such a moment he will not be away. A
warrant is out against him. He may not venture abroad by night or
day. But he can be useful in a thousand ways, for he knows more
than any other man of some matters appertaining to the state. And
if our hopes be realized, then he will emerge from his prison and
rove the country from end to end. He has friends in every place. To
him we shall look for guidance in a hundred ways."

Walter's eyes glowed. He looked like one to whom triumph is a
certainty--one who anticipates success and already tastes the
sweets thereof. Cuthbert was growing uncomfortable. He felt as
though he were hearing more than he ought to do. True, the Coles
had talked in very much this fas