The elder of them then asked him, saying, '_Hast thou
laid it under the right pillow of the bed where he lay yesternight_?'
With these words they both went towards a willow-tree on the right, by
the new stairs, which tree seemed to cleave open, and as they went in it
closed, and I never saw them more. With great haste I returned to my
chamber, where, lifting up the right pillow, I found my precious stone;
being greatly rejoiced, together with my wife, who joined me in thanking
God for its return."[21]
"An exceeding comfortable and gracious providence: being preserved, I
doubt not, from the evil ones," said Bartholomew Hickman. "But I would
fain give you a sample of my skill, if so be that you will prepare the
crystal, charging it with due care and attention."
Then did the Doctor betake himself to the performance of sundry strange
rites, consisting of many absurd forms and hard speeches, ever and anon
ejaculating a fervent prayer for success, and a petition against doubt
and deception. He spread a fair carpet on the table, disposing the
candlesticks on each side, and a little behind the crystal. This was
placed upon a cushion of black silk, a crucifix near, and the psalter
before it, open at the service for the departed.
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