Читать «Айвенго / Ivanhoe» онлайн - страница 45

“Conrade,” said the Grand Master, “dear companion of my battles, only you I can tell how much sorrow the degradation of our Order gives me.”

“It is true,” answered Conrade Mont-Fitchet, “that the irregularities of our brethren in England are even worse than those in France.”

“Because they are more wealthy,” answered the Grand Master. “I swear to you that except for yourself and some few knights that still keep the ancient severity of our Order I see not one true brother Templar. They wear fur, they hunt, they read what they are prohibited to read, they eat delicacies and to drink like a Templar has become a proverb! – They are prohibited to offer even to their sisters and their mothers the kiss of affection, and I am ashamed to speak—ashamed to think—how they break that rule. The souls of our pure founders are disturbed even in paradise itself. I have seen them, Conrade, in my dreams. Beaumanoir, they say, you sleep—awake! My actions must be sharp and sudden—the Order is in a crisis. We must cast away these riches, which are a temptation to princes. Or—mark my words—the Order of the Temple will be utterly demolished.”

“Now may God stop this!” said the Preceptor.

“Amen,” said the Grand Master, with solemnity, “but we must deserve His aid.”

At this moment a squire entered the garden, and, bowing profoundly before the Grand Master, stood silent, waiting for his permission to tell his news.

“Speak, Damian, we permit you,” said the Grand Master.

“A Jew stands outside the gate, noble and reverend father,” said the Squire, “who wants to speak with brother Brian de Bois-Guilbert.”

“You are right to tell me first. It is important for us to know about this Bois-Guilbert and his actions,” said the Grand-Master, turning to his companion.

“People say he is very brave,” said Conrade.

“It is true,” said the Grand Master; “in our courage only we are not degenerated from the heroes of the Cross. But brother Brian has become an active agitator and a leader for those who criticize our authority. – Damian,” he continued, “lead the Jew to our presence.”

The squire left and in a few minutes returned with Isaac of York. When the Jew had approached within the distance of three yards, Beaumanoir made a sign that he should come no farther. The Jew kneeled down on the earth which he kissed in token of reverence; then rising, stood before the Templars, his hands folded on his bosom, his head bowed on his breast.

“Damian,” said the Grand Master, “leave and do not let anyone enter this garden until we leave it.”—The squire bowed and retreated. – “Jew,” continued the haughty old man, “look at me. Be brief in your answers to my questions and don’t lie.”

The Jew was about to reply, but the Grand Master went on.