“Indeed you are, but I should not have dreamed of asking any but you first.”
“I wish you well at court, Mistress Holland. Alas I have no words of advice for you, nor suggestions, as it can prove a dangerous and misleading place, but you may depart with my best wishes nonetheless.”
Norfolk glowered as he bent his head in acknowledgement and offered his arm to the lady beside him. But she, oblivious to the undercurrent, threw a beatific smile about the chamber and walked out with her head held high. Thomasin could not help feeling a pang of sadness that this untouched country girl would soon be disillusioned about the true nature of court life.
After they had gone, Catherine turned and retired into her chamber, calling for wine and Maria.
“What will become of that woman now?” asked Sir Richard.
“Straight into the Boleyns’ household,” said Mary. “That is what they wanted all along. It was mere courtesy to ask the queen first, a formality, before she returns to the fold. We shall see her among Anne’s ladies soon enough.”
“It would have been a surprise to them had the queen accepted her,” said Ellen. “I do wonder how they would have taken it.”
“It would have thrown the cat among the pigeons,” said Thomasin. “But I am glad how it worked out. It is best for all this way. The more distance between the two households the better.”
“She seemed a pleasant little thing,” said Mary. “It’s a pity she has fallen into Norfolk’s hands.”
“At least she will be provided for,” said Ellen.
“For now.” Mary looked towards the queen’s closed door. “It reminds us again how our fates are tied to the men who choose us. We rise or fall with their favour.”
“What do you really think of this plan?” asked Sir Richard, as Thomasin walked him to the outer door. “Should I attempt to dissemble before Cromwell?”
“You are serving a higher authority in doing so,” said Thomasin. “What is giving you cause for doubt?”
“I was never a good liar, Thomasin. It was for this reason that I left court the first time around. I could not hide my true feelings.”
“But this time it is in service of the queen, whose need is greatest. Tell yourself that and avoid Cromwell as much as you can.”
“There is something about the man that troubles me. There always has been. It is his lack of scruples. I am sure he wouldhappily see me at the bottom of the Thames before I give my testimony in court.”
“Do you think?”
“I am sure of it.”
“There are others who will testify for the queen: More, Fisher, Tunstall and Gardiner. If you truly fear the consequences, nothing is more important than your own life.” She lowered her voice. “Not even the queen.”
“I am probably being foolish. Overreacting. I would not wish to cross Cromwell, nor displease the queen. This is a hellish situation we find ourselves in. I will pray to God for guidance.”
“It rather depends,” said Thomasin, “whether this instruction comes from Cromwell himself, or the king.”
“Surely not the king?” said her father at once. “I cannot accept that he would block my appearance, or that any threat comes from him. Above all, we must follow our consciences, but when those differ from the wishes of the king, I know not what to do.”
“All will be well, Father, I am sure. The court will summon you tomorrow. You cannot refuse to appear simply because Cromwell wishes it otherwise. You are bound to obey the authority of the Pope.”
“I do not believe Master Cromwell gives a fig for the Pope!”
A knock at the door brought in a messenger boy. He saw Thomasin first.
“Mistress Marwood, a letter for your father,” he said, then turned and saw Sir Richard. “My lord, what fortunate timing.”
Sir Richard took the paper and broke the seal. “It’s from your mother at Monk’s Place. It seems that Cecilia has turned up there.”
“Cecilia?”
“Apparently she has left Sir Hugh in Sussex and come to London, to throw herself upon our mercy.”
“Goodness. Well, at least she has arrived safely and will come to no harm under your roof.”
