And without questioning Levina further, the Countess went on and addressed Belasez direct.
“My maid, hast thou fared well? I fear Levina did not bring thee proper things.”
Belasez hesitated. She was very unwilling to say no: and how could she in conscience say yes?
“They were according to our law, I thank my Lady,—all but the ham. That, under her gracious leave, I must decline.”
“But thou didst not take the cheese?”
“No,—with my Lady’s leave.”
“Was it not in accordance with thy law, or didst thou not like it?”
“If my Lady will pardon me,” said poor Belasez, driven into a corner, “I did not like it.”
“What kind was it?”
“Levina said it was Suffolk cheese.” Belasez’s conscience rather smote her in giving this answer.