"Don’t misunderstand," Thon Taddeo interrupted. "I would have returned them in any event-as a matter of honor, not to let them take advantage of your hospitality for-but never mind. If I had returned the sketches any sooner, the officers would have had plenty of time and opportunity to draw up another set." The abbot arose slowly and reached for the scholar’s hand. Thon Taddeo hesitated. "I promise no effort on your behalf-"