It must have been a rather nasty fall, to injure him so. Malachi nodded in wordless understanding. Not that he could say that he had ever taken a tumble down the altar steps himself, in his years of priesthood, but he certainly would not set out to embarrass him for such a thing.

"Not to worry," said Malachi. "I'm quite used to working on my own. There's no need to strain yourself before you're well."

What he had not been told, however, was why the church had needed a replacement. Father Richards' diminished duties he knew, and he dared not mention that matter yet, but of Father Kemble he'd heard quite little.

"I would like to hear about the parish, though, if you feel well enough to tell me."