Two
April, 1361
Cambridge Castle
Cambridgeshire, England
‘Mallard or snipe? Take ya pick,’ screeched a peddler as the small travelling party made their way through the centre of Cambridge. ‘All fresh kills, I promise ya. I don’t do scavenging,’ he persisted, waving the long-dead birds in front of Lady Catherine Wexford.
‘Move along. M’lady is not interested in your wares,’ instructed the sergeant-at-arms, positioning his horse between Catherine and the growing number of nosey vendors.
‘Is it always this busy?’ she asked her husband, Simon Marshall, Lord Wexford, who had been conversing with several of his soldiers.
‘No. I believe my return has whipped up additional excitement,’ Simon replied as he waved to a number of well-wishers.
‘I believe they may be more interested in your bride,’ quipped Roderick of Guildford, Simon’s half-brother. ‘And by the look on their faces, I think I can safely say they are somewhat surprised!’
‘Surprised? Why would they be so?’ asked Catherine.
‘Well, to begin with, you don’t have two heads, nor breathe fire,’ jested Roderick as he closed the space between the sergeant in front and several of their guards caught in the ensuing throng.
Catherine’s mare shied as the bystanders pushed forward. Stall-holders were joined by peasants and noblemen alike, all straining their necks to catch a glimpse of the new Lady Wexford. Catherine grasped the reins tightly, fearful for the first time since they departed Denny Abbey.
Simon could see his wife struggling to keep her mare calm. He urged the crowd to allow him passage, but as each gap appeared it was quickly filled by well-meaning tenants wanting to convey their best wishes. He was fighting a losing battle and he knew it. Simon dismounted and clambered upon the hitching post outsideThe Laughing Eel.
‘Behold,’ he bellowed. The crowd paused. ‘Behold, Lady Catherine Wexford.’
A congratulatory cheer rose up and, as the townsfolk turned to face Simon, Roderick grasped the bridle of Catherine’s mare.
‘I am a most fortunate man,’ continued Simon, who smiled in response to the whistles and firm nods. ‘Lady Catherine is a rare beauty and possesses a generous and gentle heart. I know you will make her welcome.’ Simon waited until the acknowledgment died down. ‘And I am sure you would not want my wife’s first memory of Cambridge to be one that includes a tumble from her mount.’
His speech was having the desired effect as the horde stepped back, allowing Simon’s soldiers to reform a protective barrier around Catherine. ‘Innkeeper, open two barrels of ale and allow the good folk of Cambridge to toast the health of their lord and lady.’
A third round of cheering greeted the news as Simon tossed the innkeeper a small bag of coins. Within moments the street was deserted and instead, the rooms ofThe Laughing Eel were packed to overflowing.
‘How do you fare?’ Simon asked Catherine as they crossed the bridge over the River Cam.
‘I am well, Simon. I … I am sorry I caused you much expense.’
‘’Twas very little to ensure your safety.’ He smiled. ‘They did not mean to unsettle you.’
‘It was more that they frightened the horse. I fear I will never be comfortable atop four legs.’
‘Once we round this bend you will be able to fully appreciate our destination and then, I promise you, generous meals, a warm bed and plenty of rest.’
Cambridge Castle sat on top of a steep mound surrounded by high curtain walls
