" Is it true, O Cathal, that the Druids— that
the priests of Christ and the two other gods,
the white-robed men whom we call Culdees,
and of whom you are one, is it true that they
will have nought to do with women ? "

Cathal looked upon the woman no more, but
on the ground at his feet.
" It is true, Ardanna."

The girl laughed. It was a low, sweet,
mocking laugh, but it went along Cathal's

328



/ / / / /



Cathal of the Woods

blood like cloud-fire along the sky. It was to
him as though somewhat he had not seen was
revealed.
" And is it a true thing that you holy men
look at women askance, and as snares of peril
and evil ? "

" It is true, Ardanna ; but not so upon those
who are sisters of Christ, and whose eyes are
upon heavenly things."

" But what of those who are not sisters of
your god, and are only women, fair to look
upon, fair to woo, fair to love ? "

Cathal again flushed. His eyes were still
upon the ground. He made no answer.
Ardanna laughed low.
" Cathal ! "

"Yes, fair daughter of Ecta?"

" Is it never longing for love you are ? "

" There is but one love for us who have
taken the vows of chastity."

"What is chastity?"

Cathal raised his eyes and glanced at Ar-
danna. Her dark-blue eyes looked at him
pure and sweet, though a smile was upon her
mouth. He sighed.
" It is the sanctity of the body, Ardanna."

"I do not understand/' she said simply.
