The lay-brother was large, taciturn, weary—having done all the workthroughout—and by this time somewhat bored with the whole business. He madethe appropriate exclamations where needed, but left the narrative in the ablehands of Brother Jerome, who told all with zest. How they had brought theirpatient to the village of Holywell, and asked the inhabitants for directionsand aid, and been shown where the saint had risen living after her martyrdom,in the silver fountain that still sprang in the same spot, furnished now with astone basin to hold its sacred flow. There they had led the ramblingColumbanus, stripped him of habit, shirt and drawers, and poured the sacredwater over him and instantly he had stood erect and lifted his hands in prayer,and given thanks for a mind restored. Afterwards he had asked them in wonderhow he came there, and what had happened to him, and had been greatly chastenedand exalted at his humbling and his deliverance, and most grateful to hispatroness, by whose guidance he had been made whole.

“And, Father, the people there told us that the saint is indeed buriedat Gwytherin, where she died after her ministry, and that the place where herbody is laid has done many miracles. But they say that her tomb, after so long,is neglected and little thought of, and it may well be that she longs for abetter recognition, and to be installed in some place where pilgrims may come,where she may be revered as is her due, and have room to enlarge her grace andblessing to reach more people in need.”

“You are inspired, having been present at this miracle,” saidPrior Robert, tall and splendid with faith rewarded, “and you speak outwhat I have felt in listening to you. Surely Saint Winifred is calling us torescue as she came to the rescue of Brother Columbanus. Many have need of hergoodness as he had, and know nothing of her. In our hands she would be exaltedas she deserves, and those who need her grace would know where to come and seekit. I pray that we may mount that expedition of faith to which she summons us.Father Abbot, give me your leave to petition the church, and bring this blessedlady home to rest here among us, and be our proudest boast. For I believe it isher will and her command.”