At this period the door of the cell opened, and the prior entered from
the cloisters-he started on seeing his room filled with strangers.
Murray took off his helmet, and approached him. On recognizing the son
of his patron, the prior inquired his commands; and expressed some
surprise that such a company, and above all, a lady, could have passed
the convent-gate without his previous notice.
Murray pointed to the recess behind the altar; and then explained to
the good priest the necessity which had compelled them to thus seek the
protection of St. Fillan. "Lady Helen," continued he, "must share your
care until Heaven empowers the Earl of Mar to reclaim his daughter, and
adequately reward this holy church."
The soldier then presented the cross, with the iron box; repeating the
message that confided them also to his keeping.
The prior listened to these recitals with sorrowful attention. He had
not heard the noise of armed men advancing to the castle; but knowing
that the earl was making warlike preparations, he had no suspicion that
these were other than the Bothwell soldiers. He took the box, and
laying it on the altar, pressed the cross to his lips.
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