before dawn, hugh beringar arrives with news that the raiders from powys are nearing godric's ford. in the bustle of getting fresh horses, cadfael sees einon's ornate saddlecloth and realises it was the murder weapon. he now knows who the murderer is, but tells no one. he asks owain gwynedd whether atonement for prestcote's murder requires another death, pleading that atonement by penitence would be preferable. owain agrees, holding that guilt is considered in degrees.