His kindness was almost overwhelming.
“I do not wish to upset you, only to be of service,” he went on. “Tell me, what is the news?”
“It happened in the court this morning: Father was arrested by Cromwell’s men. He was meant to give evidence today in support of the queen.”
“And the king has been informed?”
“He is turning a blind eye to all those whose consciences might prevent him from fulfilling his desires. Even to his oldest friends.”
“He is no friend. Remember that. The king is always the king and we are his subjects, never his friends. I am appalled, Thomasin, utterly appalled by the treatment of your father. It is so completely undeserved. If there is anything I can do, everything I own is at your disposal.”
“You are so very kind.”
“And your mother, your uncle? How are they?”
“Better than before. Some letters belonging to my father were taken by Cromwell’s men, but it should come to nothing.”
“They have been here? Searching the place?”
“Yes, not so long ago. Ralph Sadler and Cromwell’s men.”
“I know Sadler. He is not a bad man, but he serves a ruthless master and would be better placed elsewhere. What was in the letters?”
“Only friendly exchanges with an abbot in Guisnes.”
“I pray nothing will come of it.”
“Oh, and my sister is here — Cecilia. She is expecting a child.”
“Then it is imperative that this is resolved as quickly and calmly as possible. Who else is helping your cause?”
“More and Dudley have been here. Their plan is to appeal to the cardinals to summon Father to court. The king cannot ignore a direct summons with papal authority.”
Giles went quiet. His face contracted in thought.
“You do not believe so?”
“I wonder,” he began, “whether you really want to force the king’s hand? He was so determined not to hear your father’stestimony that he sent him to the Tower. What would he do if the situation were forced? I understand the reasons for it, but for the sake of your family’s peace, you do not want to incur the king’s wrath. No Pope in Rome could protect him if the king turns against him. I am sorry to speak bluntly; I do not wish to alarm you.”
“But you are right, by God’s truth, you are right. I must go back to court at once and warn More and Dudley. The cardinals must not summon Father again.”
“I think you are right. Put the king’s divorce aside. Nothing matters more than your family’s safety.”
“I must leave.” Thomasin started to hurry towards the house.
“Let me do this for you. I have a horse waiting outside and will go straight to them.”
“But … but I can’t let you…”
“We are cousins, remember. Distant cousins, but family nonetheless. Your suffering is also mine.”
Thomasin felt tears springing to her eyes and fought them back. “I must return to court anyway.”
“Then I will accompany you. If you have a carriage, I will ride alongside.”
“Yes, I came by carriage. I can’t thank you enough.”
“Then let us go. But, Thomasin, I promise this will be resolved. I shall not rest until it is.”
