The Curse Upon Mitre Square — page 19: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

THE NEOPHYTE. Il possessed the whitest teeth imaginable, beautiful in their regularity and perfection. When not conversing Martin’s appearance gave the impression of an intellect debased by cunning -and evil passion; when, however, he spoke, his eloquence and manner EDOM ES this, and intellect _ only was discernible. Such was the neophyte and favoured protégé of Prior Handcock. Great pains were taken to interest Martin in his new duties, but at first no special work was allotted to him. The monks realised that he was no ordinary man, and though, as a rule, they did not favour new comers, they for once approved the Prior’s selection of a favourite, and regarded him as the coming light of the monastery. It was soon evident that Martin’s career would be that of a preacher, and so well did he work and so exemplary was his character, that the Prior, after consulting the other monks, decided that the more onerous duties should be waived in order that he might pursue such studies that would befit him for an orator. Martin progressed very rapidly under the treat- ment of the good monks, and made himself a great master of rhetoric. His natural polish of manner and silvery voice held him in good stead, and his expressive ‘face emphasised the thoughts that he uttered. The Prior. however. discovered that his young protégé took but little interest in the works of the Fathers. and made tardy progress in theology. ECNMIC MOO KSe (e@ af