“Farewell. Be discreet, child.”
Francis followed Lord Hunsdon through several lofty halls and chambers. Finally the official caught sight of a youth who stood idly by a pillar.
“Devereaux,” he called. “I would speak with thee.”
“I am here, my lord.” The boy was at his 144 side instantly. “Command me, I pray you. How can I serve you?”
“Take this lad, and make him thy pupil, Edward. He hath been sent here to be taught manners. There be none so well versed in such things as thou art. Therefore do I give him into thy charge.”
The youth raised his head and gave a keen searching glance at Francis. The recognition was instantaneous. Francis gave a slight exclamation for the boy was he with whom she had contested the slaying of the deer. Beyond a slight sparkle of his eye the lad betrayed no sign of ever having seen her before.
“And, Edward, I know the custom that prevails amongst the pages of treating with undue harshness such as come among ye for the first time. I charge you, as you wish to curry favor with me, that this lad shall meet with naught but gentleness. Dost hear, Edward?”
“Ay, my lord. It shall be as thou sayst. He shall be treated with gentleness. With exceeding great gentleness, I promise you.”
The boy’s manner was very deferential, but 145 the ears of Francis caught the sinister meaning that lurked beneath his words.
“My lord,” she said boldly, “is there none other to whom I may be consigned except this youth? I like not his appearance.”