Chapter 6William woke to the morning bell which was calling the monks to matins. He was still holding his pillow in his arms. He was usually up before the bell so he hurriedly got up, dressed, and walked out into the hallway. Several monks solemnly walked by, heads bowed, hands folded in front, hidden by their flared sleeves, hoods covering their faces. They acknowledged him with a nod. William looked toward Samuel’s door.
William waited a few seconds, then decided he should check just to make sure Samuel was awake. It wouldn’t do for him to miss matins on his first day as a postulant. And besides, William was anxious to see him.
He rapped softly on the door to Samuel’s cell. There was no answer. He rapped again, this time louder.
Samuel opened the door sleepy-eyed, his hair tousled, an
