in his hand, yet with his pilgrim's staff he
did good service in the armies of the Christians; and it pleased God
that he escaped unhurt, though he was present in many battles, and his
courage inspired the men with the same. At last a truce was made with
the Saracens, and Rinaldo, now old and infirm, wishing to see his
native land again before he died, took ship and sailed for France. When
he arrived he shunned to go to the resorts of the great, and preferred
to live among the humble folk, where he was unknown. He did country
work, and lived on milk and bread, drank water, and was therewith
content. While he so lived he heard that the city of Cologne was the
holiest and best of cities, on account of the relics and bodies of
saints who had there poured out their blood for the faith. This induced
him to betake himself thither. When the pious hero arrived at Cologne
he went to the monastery of St. Peter, and lived a holy life, occupied
night and day in devotion. It so happened that at that time in the next
town to Cologne there raged a dreadful pestilence. Many people came to
Rinaldo, to beg him to pray for them, that the plague might be stayed.
The holy man prayed fervently, and besought the Lord to take away the
plague from the people, and his prayer was heard. The stroke of the
pestilence was arrested, and all the people thanked the holy man and
praised God.

Now there was at this time at Cologne a bishop, called Agilolphus, who
was a wise and understanding man, who led a pure and secluded life, and
set a good example to others. This bishop undertook to build the Church
of St. Peter, and gave notice to all stonemasons and other workmen
round about to come to Cologne, where they should find work and wages.
Among others came Rinaldo; and he worked among the laborers and did
more than four or five common workmen. When they went to dinner he
brought stone and mortar so that they had enough for the whole day.
When the others went to bed he stretched himself out on the stones. He
ate bread only, and drank nothing but water; and had for his wages but
a penny a day. The head workman asked him his name, and where he
belonged. He would not tell, but said nothing and pursued his work.
They called him St. Peter's workman, because he was so devoted to his
work.

When the overseer saw the diligence of this holy man he chid the
laziness of the other workmen, and said, "You receive more pay than
this good man, but do not do half as m