It takes a lot to wound a man without illusions.

To have faith in Divine protection is good, but even beter if backed by the pratical assistance heaven has a right to expect from sensible mortals.

Of all the reports that fly about the world, ill news is the surest of all to arrive!

I have always known that the best of the Saracens could out-Christian many of us Christians.

You'll never get to be a saint if you deny the bit of the devil in you.

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

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.