"Jacques," ejaculated his wife reprovingly, "what are you saying? The poor father may be weary. If he were a man-at-arms you would give him welcome." "If he were a man-at-arms he would have something worth hearing to tell," retorted Jacques. In spite of his words, however, he rose as the friar came to the door, and saluted him but with scant courtesy. "Pax vobiscum, my son," said the friar humbly. "Perchance for the love of God you will give a poor brother of the Order of the Blessed Francis somewhat to eat, and a place to abide for the night. I have travelled far, and am aweary." "Enter, father," spoke Jacques shortly. "Supper will soon be upon the table, and a bed shall be made for you." "Thank you, my son. A benediction upon you, and upon your house," returned the priest so mildly that Jacques' manner softened. He was not usually churlish to guests, unbidden though they might be; but he was anxious and uneasy over his daughter, and her fervid zeal for the church caused him to regard churchmen with temporary disfavor. At the monk's tone, however, he threw wide the door and gave him a seat with more show of cordiality. The friar had scarcely seated himself before Jeanne entered, bearing a flagon of fresh water and a cup which she carried directly to him. Bending low before him she said gently: "Drink, good father. You must be thirsty." "I am, my child." The Franciscan quaffed the water gratefully, saying, as he gave back the cup: "I have travelled many leagues, even from Rome, where I have been upon a pilgrimage." "From Rome?" ejaculated Jacques D'Arc, turning round with eagerness. "Hear you that, Isabeau? The holy man has been to Rome. Hasten with the supper; he must be hungry." With this he busied himself to make the priest more comfortable. To make a pilgrimage to Rome cast a glamour of sanctity about him who made it, and exalted him in the eyes of all men. [Illustration: "THE HOLY MAN HAS BEEN TO ROME"] Jeanne smiled as her father and mother bustled about the friar, and quietly occupied herself with preparations for the supper. It was soon ready, and eaten with all the hearty relish of honest, human hunger. After it was over the best place by the fire was given the friar--already the evenings were beginning to grow chill--and the family gathered around him. As has been said before, in return for their entertainment travellers were expected to regale their hosts with whatsoever news they might be possessed of, or with tales of their travels or adventures. The Franciscan proved to be most agreeable. He told of his pilgrimage, and described at length the appearance of the holy city. He spoke also of having seen and spoken with the holy Colette of Corbie, that famous nun whose miracles of healing were then the wonder of the Christian world.