"Where is it?"

"On the North bank of the Wharfe, a short three leagues beyond
Kirkstall Abbey."

"And the Abbey?"

"Five leagues or more from Pontefract."

"A proper distance--we can taste the good monks' hospitality and still
make Craigston before night. Is this the Aire I see shining ahead?"

"The same; the ford is easy."

De Lacy nodded; and the veteran taking that as his dismissal drew back
and resumed his place in the column.

The nones bell had already sounded some little time when they drew rein
before the lodge of the great Cistercian Abbey. The gates were closed,
but the wicket was open and at it was the rotund face of the brother
who served as porter.

"Be so kind, worthy monk, as to say to your superior that a Knight and
his attendants crave refreshment ere they travel further," said De Lacy.

"Enter, fair lord," returned the porter, swinging back the gates. "Bid
your men repair to the buttery yonder, while I conduct your worship to
the holy father."

They found the Abbot pacing the gravel path between the cloister and