It takes a lot to wound a man without illusions.

They sell courage of a sort in the taverns. And another sort, though not for sale, a man can find in the confessional. Try the alehouses and the churches, Hugh. In either a man can be quiet and think.

All the things of the wild have their proper uses. Only misuse makes them evil.

the success of a holiday depends on what you find for yourself on the spot, not what you bring with you.

What are wits for unless a man uses them?

Bitter though it may be to many, Cadfael concluded, there is no substitute for truth, in this or any case.

Brother Cadfael knew better than to be in a hurry, where souls were concerned. There was plenty of elbow-room in eternity.