could--so said the Bishop--be most completely trusted."

Whereupon irreparable harm would be done; for, at once, Mora would
realise that she had been deceived; and her peace of mind and calm of
conscience would be disturbed, if not completely overthrown.

One thing seemed clear to the Bishop.

Hugh must be warned. Probably no harm had as yet been done. The
vision was so sacred a thing to Mora, that weeks might elapse before
she spoke of it to her husband.

With as little delay as possible Hugh must be put upon his guard.

CHAPTER XLII

THE WARNING

Alert, determined, all trace of lassitude departed, the Bishop returned
to the library, laid the stone upon the deed chest, sat down at a table
and wrote a letter. He had made up his mind as to what must be said,
and not once did he pause or hesitate over a word.

While still writing, he lifted his left hand and struck upon a silver
gong.

When his servant entered, the Bishop spoke without raising his eyes
from the table.

"Request Brother Philip to come here, without loss of time."

When the Bishop, having signed his letter, laid down the pen, and
looked up, Brother Philip stood before him.

"Philip," said the Bishop, "select a trustworthy messenger from among
the stable men, one possessed of wits as well as muscle; mount him on a
good beast, supply him with whatsoever he may need for a possible six
days' journey. Bring him to me so soon as he is ready to set forth.
He must bear a letter, of much importance, to Sir Hugh d'Argent; and,
seeing that I know only the Knight's route and stopping places, on his
northward ride, but not his time of starting, which may have been
yesterday or may not be until to-morrow, my messenger must ride first
to Warwick, which if the Knight has left, he must then follow in his
tracks until he overtake him."

"My lord," said Brother Philip, "the sun is setting and the daylight
fades. The messenger cannot now reach Warwick until long after
nightfall. Would it not be safer to have all in readiness, and let him
start at dawn. He would then arrive early in the day, and could
speedily overtake the most worshipful Knight who, riding with his lady,
will do the journey by short stages."

"Nay," said the Bishop, "the matter allows of no delay. Mount him so
well, that he shall outdistance all dangers. He must start within half
an hour."

Brother Philip, bowing low, withdrew.

The Bishop bent again over the table, and read