The Lady Carey by Anne R Bailey

Author:Anne R Bailey [Bailey, Anne R]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Bailey Books
Published: 2017-05-07T04:00:00+00:00

Her uncle was at his desk, going over papers. He had not yet retired for the night and welcomed her in.

“I am surprised to see you are the first to jump to my summons.”

“Jane was asleep,” she said. She stood before him, as he had not invited her to sit.

“So what can you tell me about Anne of Cleves?”

“She is pleasant and seems to be very kind.”

Her uncle waved away. “No, girl. I don’t need to hear you flattering her. I am sure you have heard by now the King is not happy with the match.”

Catherine nodded, she played with the chain around her waist.

“So…”

She wasn’t sure what he wanted her to say, but she told him all she knew.

“It was that first meeting. She slapped him when he was in disguise, and I think he was furious with her. Perhaps he still is.” Her uncle nodded. Everyone had heard about this event. “She doesn’t know about our English customs and is unwilling to wear some of the English gowns we offered to her.”

“Why not?”

“She says they are too revealing.”

He laughed. “Go on.”

“Of course, she goes to mass like the rest of us, but I can tell she is uncomfortable.”

“Oh?” His interest was piqued. “Have you seen her praying in German or reading any prohibited books?”

“Not as far as I know, My Lord.” Catherine took a step back. “She is just confused. She doesn’t know Latin and barely any English. I am sure with time she will come to learn and understand.”

“You know, if she was to show any heretical tendencies, the marriage could be called off.”

“But she is allowed to practice her religion. The King knew she was a Protestant.” Catherine earned a glare for her outspokenness.

“Only in private. So if you or anyone has seen her acting otherwise then we have grounds to complain,” he snapped.

“I see. I am sorry.” Catherine’s eyes were downcast.

“The King only wishes to find a good Queen for the country. You understand that. We have to make sure she is fit,” he said. His tone was now softer and more placating. “You’ve done well, though. If you continue being helpful to me, you shall be rewarded. Keep an eye out and report to me anything you think of vital importance. I shall summon you occasionally to hear your reports.”

“Yes, thank you, My Lord.” Catherine curtseyed and left the room.

She didn’t need an escort, knowing the way back to the Queen’s apartments. Along the way she passed by the great hall where she spotted a familiar figure playing cards. It made her stop in her tracks. There was Francis, laughing jovially with some other young gentlemen.

He must have sensed someone looking at him because, much to her embarrassment, he looked up and noticed her in the door way. He gave her a little wave; she gave him a quick wary smile before strolling away.

Her mind was not on Francis but rather on what her uncle had said and what he wanted from her. She wasn’t sure she could do what he was implying nor was she sure she wanted to.

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