The Broken Sword (The Mary Fox Adventures Book 1) by Jonathan Posner

Author:Jonathan Posner [Posner, Jonathan]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Winter & Drew Publishing
Published: 2022-03-16T00:00:00+00:00

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After we had finished the pie in companionable silence and our tray had been collected, I sat back to allow some air into

my chest.

“I feel all the better for that,” I said. “But now we should get back to your father upstairs, and not linger in sight of these people a moment more than we have to.”

He nodded, and we were about to stand when I noticed that one of the merchants who had been huddled at the table nearby, was now staring hard at Robert.

My breath caught in my throat, as he stood up and strode purposefully over to our table.

“Robert Fitzwilliam?” he asked. “Son of Sir John? I thought I recognised you.”

I wanted to deny it; to say the man was mistaken, and that our names were Robert and Mary Godfrey, but I could see Robert had been caught off guard, and had made the smallest nod

of recognition.

“Master Geoffrey Simmonds,” he said. “You have bought wool from the farms owned by my father.”

“Aye, and good prices they fetched, too, young Fitzwilliam,” answered Simmonds, a little too loudly for my comfort. Then his face fell and he assumed a more sombre expression. “I was distressed to hear your father’s lands were enclosed, and extraordinary rents due.” Robert nodded and Simmonds continued, his face even more sombre. “And also that your mother and sister have been unwell. I trust they are now recovered?”

“I know not,” answered Robert. “My father and I have been away nigh on three weeks, seeking a… a cure. But we shall be returning very shortly.”

Then he turned to me and looked me up and down a moment. “And you are returning with a charming bride, I see,” he said, sweeping off his hat and bowing low. “I am honoured to make your acquaintance, Mistress Fitzwilliam.”

“Master Simmonds,” I replied, bowing my head, “Mary… er… Fitzwilliam. I am honoured to meet you.”

I caught Robert’s eye and shook my head slightly, to warn him not to reveal any more truths. He gave a small nod in return, although I feel there was perhaps also a look of quiet triumph, for he had gone from proposal to seeming marriage in but a few minutes.

Fortunately Geoffrey was putting his hat back on, and did not spot this little exchange.

“You are a lucky man, Robert, to have a bride so fair.”

“Thank you, Master Simmonds. I am indeed

very fortunate.”

I turned away, to hide my smile.

“Geoffrey, please. Call me Geoffrey. I have known your father too many years to be so formal.”

“For sure… Geoffrey.”

“That is better. Now tell me,” Geoffrey said, “are you both staying here in the Three Cups?”

“We are, as we await a boat up the Orwell.”

“Well, I believe the next boat sails in three or four days.” Geoffrey put his hand on Robert’s shoulder. “In the meantime,

I insist you and your lovely wife come home with me and become my honoured guests.”

I could see Robert was unsure how to respond, so I said, “That is most kind Master Simmonds.” I gave him my most demure smile from beneath lowered lashes.

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