We must not rush foolishly upon death. That is forbidden to us."

"I do not seek death," said Master Richard.

The clerk leaned over him a little, and Master Richard saw his eyes bent
upon him with great tenderness.

"Master Hermit," he said, "I entreat you not to be your own enemy. You
see that those that know you best love you, but they do not think you to
be what you think you are---"

"I am nothing but God's man, and a sinner," said the lad.

"Well, they think your visions and the rest to be but delusions. And if
they be delusions, why should not other matters be delusions too?"

"What matters?" asked Master Richard.

"Such matters as the tidings that you brought to the King."

"And what is it you would have me to do?" asked Master Richard again
after a silence.

"It is only a little thing, poor lad--such a little thing! and then you
will be able to go whither you will."

"And what is that little thing?"

"It is to tell me that you think them delusions too."