The Schoolmaster: A Novel of the Scottish Court by Tvordi Jessica

Author:Tvordi, Jessica
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Garden Scriptorium
Published: 2024-06-02T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 10

September 1579-October 1579

When I returned home that evening, Elspeth, seeing my agitation, made me tell her what I’d learned. I did not wish to discuss the meeting, but I supposed it was best to speak when bidden rather than disturb her sleep by tossing in our bed all night.

Perhaps she did not need to know about Lord d’Aubigny’s inclinations, but I told her all.

When I finished, she asked, “But what, Peter, did you learn from Monsieur Mombirneau?”

“He confirmed what we already suspected: the Pope, the Duke of Guise, and Philip of Spain are behind a conspiracy to free Mary and return her to Scotland.”

“And what of the king should this happen?”

“The king would rule jointly with his mother—according to Monsieur Mombirneau, they plan to form an Association.”

“Would any Scot truly want Queen Mary to rule, especially after we've finally come to peace?”

“Most will not, but Lord d’Aubigny's presence may be enough to rally her supporters if they believe they can turn the king toward Rome.”

“No one wants war, Peter—not even the Catholics!”

“I hope you are right,” I said to her, kissing her hand. “In the meantime, what of this other matter?”

“The matter of Lord d’Aubigny and his lover?” she said, raising her eyebrow. I nodded, somewhat embarrassed.

“Do not judge Martin Mombirneau so harshly. You must forget your distaste and remember his losses. He was lucky to find his way to Geneva—and Master Beza was equally blessed to find him. Imagine such a young man adrift in the world, without anyone to show him care, subject to greater suffering than either of us could imagine. I hope he will find a friend in you, Peter.”

“I will treat him with kindness.”

“Well, I am eager to make his acquaintance. And the acquaintance of Lord d’Aubigny.”

“You will, my dear, tomorrow night, at the feast for the town—as Chief Almoner I most certainly must attend, and as the only lady besides Annabella Murray the king has any true affection for, you must accompany me.”

The following morning, I informed George about Martin Mombirneau, but said nothing of his relationship with Lord d’Aubigny for George was ever complaining about the French sodomites at Henri’s court and thanking God we had no such problem here in Scotland.

“Well, Peter, this is interesting news—and it rather takes the burden from you and your friends to investigate him. This way, the information will come to you, and you may proceed in a manner in keeping with your conscience.”

“What shall we do next?” I asked.

“I will arrange a meeting with the Earl of Morton—although I will not disclose the name of the spy. You must go about your business, seizing any opportunity to further your acquaintance with Esmé Stewart—and with these other young men who are creeping out of the shadows. Captain Stewart, Alexander Livingston, Patrick Gray—it is only a matter of time until he shows his face.”

“So, you and the Earl of Morton are friends now?” I asked, trying to keep a straight face.

He grunted. “As he is my enemy’s enemy, I believe a truce is necessary.

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