One Corpse Too Many (Chronicles of Brother Cadfael, #2)

by Ellis Peters

“In my measure there’s little to choose between two such monarchs, but much to be said for keeping a man’s fealty and word.

life could only be sustained by refusing to let it be disrupted, by war, catastrophe or death.

But I value devotion and fidelity, and doubt if it matters whether the object falls short. What you do and what you are is what matters.

“I never do anything without due thought—even if the thought sometimes has to shift its feet pretty briskly to keep up with the deed.”

for every untimely death, every man cut down in his vigour and strength without time for repentance and reparation, is one corpse too many.