The Russian, though a coward, was wary at times and allowed it to carry him into danger, and as an example he changed his riding garb for his cavalier costume, discarding his spurred boots for high-heeled slippers and deigning not to don coat or waistcoat started forth in search of—­he must think what?  He was without servant, as ’twas safer to leave him at the Cow and Horn;—­especially one who has corners on his conscience.  He must search for—­the kitchen.  This place was below stairs, and he stole this way and that to find a flight of steps.  Treading softly, listening intently and looking ravenously for opportunity to plunder, for there was treasure somewhere about the monastery, this was certain, and he might as well have part of it as Buckingham and Monmouth to have it all.  And in case of any mischance and Mistress Penwick be lost to him, he must have something to live upon.  Constance would never forgive him for allowing the maid to escape him, and consequently would not give him large loans as heretofore.  But if he should gain the fair prize, some day he would give back to his church even more than he had taken.  As he thus thought, he forgot for a moment his present surroundings and was suddenly reminded by a touch on the shoulder,

CHAPTER XIII

AS NINE TOLLED FROM THE CHAPEL BELFRY

He started quickly and looked up shuddering, and saw a tall, slender monk with cowl so drawn not a feature could be seen.  The Abbe spoke low and hoarsely, as though a cold prevented better utterance,—­

“What seekest thou?”

“The kitchen,” Cantemir answered, with a great show of bravery.

“And what there to find, my young man?”

“Pen and paper.  I must write to Mistress Penwick.”

“Ah yes, ah yes, my son.  I had forgotten.  Curve thy sentences to the point, without being so broad in assertion another might understand.  Thou hadst better put it this way—­”

“Indeed I thought I had my meaning well covered.  I had proposed to say—­”

“Ah, we are not alone; step this way.”  The monk turned to a panelling that gave way by a touch, and to Cantemir’s surprise they were alone in a dark and vaulted passage; indeed they were unable to discern aught.  Quickly the Abbe drew his companion from the panelling through which they had passed; and ’twas hardly done when three monks followed with lighted candles.  The foremost was Constantine, carrying an enormous bunch of keys.  Their long robes swept Cantemir’s feet.  He drew a quick breath, and before it sounded his companion placed his hand over his mouth.  Now this hand smacked not of holy mould or monastic incense, but rather of rare perfume; but Cantemir was frightened and did not notice the worldliness of the admonishing hand.  The monks proceeded down the passage; stopping near the centre they lifted from the floor a trapdoor.  A ladder was brought and swung down the opening and the three descended.