“Admit him,” said Cedric, “be he who or what he may;⁠—a night like that which roars without, compels even wild animals to herd with tame, and to seek the protection of man, their mortal foe, rather than perish by the elements. Let his wants be ministered to with all care⁠—look to it, Oswald.”

And the steward left the banqueting hall to see the commands of his patron obeyed.