human
Well, my son, quoth the Abbot, after the customary benediction had been given.
gpt
I have a small matter of which I would speak. Raymond, thy son, was until recently with us as a novice.
human
Yes, Father.
gpt
But thou didst send for him?
human
I could not do without him.
gpt
Yet he was ill spared by us a youth of much promise. Did he not ask to be allowed to take the vows of chastity and obedience?
human
Nay, Father.
gpt
What, then, is in thy mind with regard to his up-bringing?
human
But two days agone he did ask to go with me to the wars.
gpt
Alas! Alack! groaned the Abbot, speaking half to his visitor, half to himself.
human
To think that one brought up in the sanctity of this place should have a mind for the horror of war! It but shows that men's minds are by nature inclined to strife, and that we must ever be subduing the desires of malice and hatred, which, though dormant for years, are too often ready to burst forth with renewed strength. Ah me! And I did think Raymond was a brand plucked from the burning. Thinkst thou that 'tis not too late to turn him from his purpose and bring him into the brotherhood?
gpt
Father, replied the master-bowman earnestly,
human
But if he wish to stay?
gpt
Then he may do so, though as a monk he will be as far from me as ever.
human
Then he shall be asked, my son. Should he remain with us the Order profiteth; should he go Franceward, then the saints be with him and bring him safely home again. But, I ask, he added, fixing his dark eyes intently on the archer,
gpt
Nay, Father, I----
human
Then where have I met thee before?