“Then your Grace extends—”
“Well, Michael, what is it?” interrupted the King.
“It is a matter your Majesty might wish to hear in private,” said the stranger.
“Oh, step aside, my Lord. And you, gentlemen.”
The King motioned down to the further end of the room, as Michael came forward.
The Archbishop stepped off the low platform, and led the way down the floor; and the others followed.
Chris was in a whirl of bewilderment. He could see the King’s great face interested and attentive as the secretary said something in his ear, and then suddenly light up with amusement again.
“Not a word, not a word,” whispered Henry harshly. “Very good, Michael.”
The secretary then whispered once more. Chris could hear the sharp sibilants, but no word. The King nodded once more, and the man stepped down off the dais.