Under Sir Ralphs direction he was taught
theaccomplishments of his rank. All this Brother Tobias gazed at, and then he
sighed,before he rose to limp back to his studies. Petercould not choose but catch
echoes of the babble, as the saidfriends discussed the news. She was the Lady
Elinor, theeldest daughter of Percy of Northumberland. You were born inlawful
wedlock, a second son. What further do you report of the discontents?
Was he to grow old like them in this place of
shadows? I must leave thehaggards to my falconer Merryman. Likewise I have no
servant who is not deaf or dullin the wits.
Because of an old wives gossip of treason.
Doubtless a confrater, or laymember of the Abbey, come to consult on Oseney
business.
The notion onlycrossed his mind to be dismissed.
Remember, my lord, I have been a soldier. Let it be summer, then, he said at
length.
His money is lost to him whether it goesto Pope or
bishop or exchequer clerk.
The messenger handed him over to the seneschal,
whoappeared to be awaiting him.
Butlearning having made the promise could not give
him fulfilment. He felt his forehead flush and a wildgladness in him which sent the
tears to his eyes.
There was a hush at the words, as if each auditor
feared hisneighbour. History confirms you, sir, said Master Wellaby eagerly. Do not
vex yourself, for the thing works in our favour.
Because of an old wives gossip of
treason.
It waslit by the summer sunset, and beside the
table stood two men. The messenger handed him over to the seneschal, whoappeared to
be awaiting him. The blanket of the dark was very thick about him. On the stone
seats some of the brethren, who had already eaten,were basking in the sun.