Paul and Arthur sat by the fireside in the churchwardens" cosy living room. On the table behind them empty plates and serving dishes stood ready to be cleared away. Beryl came in with tea and biscuits.
“Warm yourself, Reverend Milton,” she smiled kindly at Paul. “Stay as long as you need.”
“You"re very understanding, Beryl. I"m grateful to you.” Paul felt stronger already, but the shock he had received in Walden still weighed on his spirits like a forwarning of disaster.
Beryl cleared the table and left the men to themselves. Paul warmed his hands at the fire and savoured his expertly-brewed tea.
“You"re a truly spiritual man, Reverend Milton. It gladdens my heart.” Arthur"s voice rang with deep sincerity.
“It"s Paul, please,” Paul replied. “We"re going to be friends and allies now, I
