Cecile now knew what she had before her. She, Maurice, and Toby had just a month to prepare--just a month to get ready for the great task of Cecile's life. At the end of a month they must set forth--three pilgrims without a guide. Cecile felt that it was a pity this long journey which they must take in secret should begin in the winter. Had she the power of choice, she would have put off so weary a pilgrimage until the days were long and the weather mild. But there was no choice in the matter now; just when the days were shortest and worst, just at Christmas time, they must set out.