"I would save him from a life of penury and even crime, and I can
trust him to thee."

"Oh, mother!" said the boy, weeping silently.

"Nay, Martin, we have often talked of this and longed for such a
chance, now it is come--for thine own sake, my darling, the apple
of mine eye; this good earl can be trusted."

"Earl Simon," she said, 'I know thee both great and a man who fears
God; yes, I know thee, I have long watched for such an opportunity;
take this boy, and in saving him save yourself from captivity."

"Tell me his name."

"Martin will suffice."

"But ere I undertake charge of him I would fain learn more, that I
may bring him up according to his degree."

"He is of noble birth, on both sides; how fallen from such high
estate this packet--entrusted in full confidence--will tell thee.
Simon de Montfort, I give thee my life, nay, my all; let me hear
from time to time how he fareth, through the good monks of
Michelham--thou leavest a bleeding heart behind."

"Poor woman! yet it is well for the boy; he shall be one of my
pages, if he prove worthy."

"It is all I ask: now depart ere they are stirring. It wants about