Cœlestin was silenced. He blushed and tears came to his eyes.
The Prior spoke on. “I have sympathy for your youth. Tell me what you wish. Perhaps I will grant it, but in the future spare me a repetition and do not leave your cell until He summons you Whose unworthy servants we are.”
Hesitating, Cœlestin stated his wish. He asked to accompany Andrew into the mountains.
The Prior considered, then he said earnestly: “Very good! Not because you asked me, but because it is really your turn to go. Go—and God be with you.”
Cœlestin kneeled at the Prior's feet, and wet his hand with tears as he kissed it. The Prior could not understand the tears. The procession started.
Never before had Brother Andrew been so cross and disagreeable. He thought he had cause enough. He had a presentiment that their journey would be fruitless, and he was planning how to throw the blame upon Cœlestin. Cœlestin, for the first time in his life, was supremely happy. Anyone who has recovered from a serious illness, or
