But they were Christians, as they told her in fear and
trembling. They have not so much need to fear now."
"Then I can help you," said Mord gladly. "Say nothing to the cook, for I
have found old friends who come from far in the marsh, and they will
tell me at once if they have heard of any priest. Why, when I think,
they know Welsh, and one has called himself by a Welsh name, and you
have seen him--Curan the porter."
"Ay; then do you ask these friends, and tell them that the sooner they
can bring a priest the better shall they be rewarded. I would give much
to have Goldberga's mind set at rest."
So Mord said that he would go at once; and glad he was to see Withelm
sitting with Berthun,
"Well," said the steward, "I have known Withelm of Grimsby for the last
ten years or so, and I do not suppose that it matters if you speak with
him."
"Why should it matter if I speak with any one I choose?" asked Mord,
somewhat angrily.
"That you must ask the king; for his orders are that the people of the
princess have no dealings with outsiders for two days."
"Mighty careful of us is Alsi all of a sudden," said Mord. "I suppose he
thinks that someone will stick a seax into some of us in all friendly
wise while we are talking."
But Berthun only laughed, and went to where the nurse was beckoning to
him.
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