“I am told,” he said at length, “that John Grimmer did other business besides that of selling jewels.”
“Yes, my lord, some foreign trade.”
“And some home trade also. I mean that he lent money.”
“At times, my lord, and on good security, if he chanced to have any at command, and at a certain interest. Perhaps my lord will come to his point.”
“It is short and clear. Those of us who are at Court always want money where it is needful if we would have advancement and earn the royal favour of one who does not pay, at least in gold.”
“Be pleased to state the amount and the security offered, my lord.”
He did so. The sum was high and the security was bad.
“Are there any who would stand surety for my lord?”
“Yes, one of great estate, Sir Robert Aleys, who has wide lands in Sussex.”
“I have heard the name, and if my lord will bid his lawyers put the matter in writing, I will cause the lands to be valued and give an answer as quickly as may be.”