“Chartley? Is not that where Mary of 73 Scotland is confined?” asked Francis, trying to speak indifferently.
“The very place.”
“Didst ever see her, boy?”
“Why, yes, my young master. Many a time and oft since she hath been at Chartley. She takes the air in the early morning in the gardens and I have seen her there when I drove in with my cart.”
“I would that I might see her. Could I—could I go with you?”
The youth stared for a moment and then answered soberly:
“It is forbid to us to carry aught besides our wares within the gates. And Sir Amyas is that particular that I misdoubt if he would let you enter.”
“Still I would like to try. ’Tis only for a sight of the queen. And see! here is a gold piece that thou canst have. Do let me go with thee, Will. Thy name is Will?”
“That is my name, sir.” Will’s hand closed over the gold but he still appeared reluctant. “Well, it shall be as you wish, my young master. But you must wear other garb than that, else you cannot enter.” 74
“What habit shall I wear, good Will?”