“It shall put her Ladyship to great charges,” objected the knight.
“The which, if she defray unwillingly, then is she no Christian woman.”
“And be a journey mighty displeasant, at this winter season.”
“My answer thereto is as to the last.”
“And it shall blurt out the King’s privy matters.”
“In no wise. I have not writ thereof a word in this letter, but have only prayed her Ladyship to give heed unto that which the bearer thereof shall make known to her privily.”
“Then who is to bear the same?”
“I refer me thereon, fair Sir, to your good judgment. Might one of your own sons be trusted herewith?”
Sir Godfrey looked dubious. “Godfrey should turn aside to see an horse, or to tilt at any jousting that lay in his path; and Matthew, I cast no doubt, should lose your Grace’s letter in a snowdrift.”
“Then have you brought them up but ill,” said the Archbishop. “But what hindereth that you go withal yourself?”