Historical Setting: 610 C.E., Vosges Mountains
Gabe arrived with the news that Father Columbanus was taken away, arrested by the King’s men. Greg and Gaillard had been on the road to Luxeuil and when they met up with Gabe they turned to come back here. Gaillard is certain he knows where the Father was taken so there is less hurry to follow the ruts and the soldiers’ tracks to find him. Greg and Gaillard are recommending we take this calmer moment to make a good plan.
Gabe tells of the abduction. “It happened in the dark for sleep between Vespers and Matins. I was awakened by a ruckus – men shouting — the Father’s voice in a panic. He called out our teacher, Eustasius, who would be the abbot while he is gone. Then they all came down the hallway passed my cell on toward the dovecote and the stables. I went out after them and saw soldiers dragging the Father away, blindfolded and bound. Some others of us monks were chasing after them shouting to the soldiers to let him alone. I shouted too, and when he heard my voice he called me by name. He said. ‘Brother Gabriel, send no soldiers. Your papa, Ezra, will know what to do!’”
“He said that?” I ask. “How would I know what to do?”
Greg explained to Gaillard, “At Luxeuil they call Papa, ‘Ezra’. He meant Father Columbanus doesn’t want soldiers to follow, because he knows Papa is a pacifist.”
“Oh, that puts a crimp in my plan.” Gaillard says.
Greg affirms, “no swords.”
Gaillard amends, “no swords — visible, and definitely no armor. And yet, I have a plan. The four of us…”
Haberd interrupts, “make that five of us, men,”
I look around at my family standing silently around us with their grim faces. Ana, holding back tears, twisting her hands together, her teeth clenched. Our daughters are clinging to their mother to offer their strength together. Brandell and Haberd are of the mind of warriors.
“No Haberd you’re needed here.” I order him to stay. “Five can do nothing more than four.”
Gabe speaks a prayer aloud, “Dear God, watch over the Father that he will be safe and unafraid. Guide Gaillard in making a good plan, and give us the courage to trust in the plan. Stay close. Amen.”
“Good!” Gaillard observes, “With the magic of prayer we will have God on our side.”
I would amend that, but Greg already answers, “Trust God for courage, my love, not magic.”
(Continues tomorrow)
Lazarus Ink 