he, who saw the father die, may know what things are done in his
royal name against the son. But these matters are to be settled
in course of law in the King's courts, and how will you excuse
yourself for this assault upon my house and person?"

"Nay, that is another matter," said the sacrist. "The question of
debt may indeed be an affair of a civil court. But it is a crime
against the law and an act of the Devil, which comes within the
jurisdiction of the Abbey Court of Waverley when you dare to lay
hands upon the summoner or his papers."

"Indeed, he speaks truth," cried the official. "I know no blacker
sin."

"Therefore," said the stern monk, "it is the order of the holy
father Abbot that you sleep this night in the Abbey cell, and that
to-morrow you be brought before him at the court held in the
chapter-house so that you receive the fit punishment for this and
the many other violent and froward deeds which you have wrought
upon the servants of Holy Church. Enough is now said, worthy
master summoner. Archers, remove your prisoner!"

As Nigel was lifted up by four stout archers, the Dame Ermyntrude
would have rushed to his aid, but the sacrist thrust her back.

"Stand off, proud woman! Let the law take its course, and learn
to humble your heart before the power of Holy Church. Has your
life not taught its lesson, you, whose horn was exalted among the
highest and will soon not have a roof above your gray hairs?
Stand back, I say, lest I lay a curse upon you!"