I have nothing----

FRIAR.

Thanks the same!
God will reward your purpose thousandfold.
The will and not the deed perfects the giver.
Nor was I sent to follow you for alms.

TEMPLAR.

Sent?

FRIAR.

From the convent.

TEMPLAR.

Where I even now
Was hoping to partake a pilgrim's fare.

FRIAR.

'Tis meal--time now, the tables all are full;
But if it please you, we will turn together.

TEMPLAR.

No matter, though I have not tasted meat
For many days; these dates, you see, are ripe.

FRIAR.

Be sparing of that fruit, sir, for too much
Is hurtful, sours the blood, and makes one sad.

TEMPLAR.

And what if sadness suits me? Though, methinks,
'Twas not to give this warning that you came.

FRIAR.

Oh, no! my mission was to question you--
To feel your pulse a little.

TEMPLAR.

And you tell
This tale yourself?

FRIAR.

Why not?

TEMPLAR.

An artful soul! (_aside_).
And has the convent many more like you?

FRIAR.

I know not. Mere obedience is my duty.

TEMPLAR.

And you obey without much questioning.

FRIAR.

Could it be rightly termed obedience else?

TEMPLAR.

The simple mind is ever in the right.--(_aside_).
But will you not inform me who it is
That wishes to know more of me? Not you,
I dare be sworn.

FRIAR.

Would such a wish become
Or profit me?

TEMPLAR.

Whom would it then become
Or profit to be thus inquisitive?

FRIAR.

Perhaps the Patriarch--'twas he that sent.

TEMPLAR.

The Patriarch? and does he know my badge
So il