It was a low-browed chapel of Norman or even older days,
with circular arches and heavy round piers, and so dark that the
gleam of the candles was needed to light it.
Grisell watched, till tired with kneeling she went back to her couch,
slept a little, and then wondered to see Sister Avice still
compounding her simples.
She moved wearily, and sighed for Madge to come in and tell her all
the news of Amesbury--who was riding at the ring, or who had shot the
best bolt, or who had had her work picked out as not neat or well
shaded enough.
Sister Avice came and shook up her pillow, and gave her a dried plum
and a little milk, and began to talk to her.
"You will soon be better," she said, "and then you will be able to
play in the garden."
"Is there any playfellow for me?" asked Grisell.
"There is a little maid from Bemerton, who comes daily to learn her
hornbook and her sampler. Mayhap she will stay and play with you."
"I had Madge at Amesbury; I shall love no one as well as Madge! See
what she gave me."
Grisell displayed her pouncet box, which was duly admired, and then
she asked wearily whether she should always have to stay in the
convent.
"Oh no, not of need," said the sister. "Many a maiden who has been
here for a time has gone out into the world, but some love this home
the best, as I have done."
"Did yonder nun on the wall?" asked Grisell.
"Yea, truly.
Pages:
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47