Collected Poems Volume II Part 70

PRIORESS

Oh, then indeed, You must be a great friend, for this was kept Most secret from all others.

ELINOR

A great friend!

He was my page some fifteen years ago, And all his life I have watched over him As if he were my son! I have come to beg A favour--let me see him when he comes.

My husband was a soldier, and I am skilled In wounds. In Palestine I saved his life When every leech despaired of it, a wound Caused by a poisoned arrow.

PRIORESS

You shall see him.

I have some skill myself in balms and simples, But, in these deadlier matters I would fain Trust to your wider knowledge.

ELINOR

Let me see him alone; Alone, you understand. His mind is fevered.

I have an influence over him. Do not say That I am here, or aught that will excite him.

Better say nothing--lead him gently in, And leave him. In my hands he is like a child.

PRIORESS

It shall be done. I see you are subtly versed In the poor workings of our mortal minds.

ELINOR

I learnt much from a wise old Eastern leech When I was out in Palestine.

PRIORESS

I have heard They have great powers and magic remedies; They can restore youth to the withered frame.

ELINOR

There is only one thing that they cannot do.

PRIORESS

And what?

ELINOR

They cannot raise the dead.

PRIORESS

Ah, no; I am most glad to hear you say it, most glad To know we think alike. That is most true-- Yes--yes--most true; for G.o.d alone, dear friend, Can raise the dead!

[_A bell begins tolling slowly._]

The bell for even-song!

You have not long to wait.

[_Shadowy figures of nuns pa.s.s the windows and enter the chapel.

The sunset deepens._]

Will you not pray With me?

[_The PRIORESS and QUEEN ELINOR kneel down together before a little shrine. Enter the NOVICE._]

NOVICE

There is a forester at the door.

Mother, I think 'tis he!

PRIORESS

[_Rising._]

Admit him, then.

ELINOR

Leave me: I will keep praying till he comes.

PRIORESS

You are trembling! You are not afraid?

ELINOR

[_With eyes closed as in strenuous devotion._]

No; no; Leave me, I am but praying!

[_A chant swells up in the chapel. Exit PRIORESS. ELINOR continues muttering as in prayer. Enter ROBIN HOOD, steadying himself on his bow, weak and white. She rises and pa.s.ses between him and the door to confront him._]

ELINOR

Ah, Robin, you have come to me at last For healing. Pretty Marian cannot help you With all her kisses.

ROBIN HOOD

[_Staring at her wildly._]

You! I did not know That you were here. I did not ask your help.

I must go--Marian!