Earl Read Online Free Page A

Although we were admitted I suspected that my men might have to make do with the stables as there would be other guests for the funeral.
    Sir Hugh introduced me to Sir Barnard, "My lord this is Alfraed, Earl of Cleveland and Knight of the Empress Matilda."
    Sir Barnard gave a bow and said quickly, "I am honoured that you have graced us with your presence my lord.  I hope you were not offended that I did not invite you to the funeral."
    "Of course not and you have my sympathy.  Your father was a doughty knight who defended this end of the Tees valley well. I am sure the King will hope that you continue to do so."
    There was the slightest of hesitation before he smiled and said, "Of course." He saw William at my side, "And is this your squire or your son?"
    That pleased William who beamed, "I am the Earl's son, William, and I too will be a great warrior when I grow up!"
    "Of course you will." Sir Barnard turned to me.  "I am afraid I only have a chamber for you and your son this night for we have many guests.  Your men will have to sleep in the stables."
    "They have endured worse and we came as unexpected guests.  Think nothing of it."
    He bowed, "Come we are still in the middle of the feast." He ruffled William's hair, "We will find a chair high enough for you, my little man!"
    I turned to Leofric and John, "Tell Wulfric they are to sleep in the stable.  I am sure he can arrange food." They nodded. I held up a warning finger, "Tell him, best behaviour! And especially Erre and his men! And tell him to keep eyes and ears open.  He will understand." Wulfric was a great gatherer of intelligence. Men at arms gossiped.
    I followed Sir Barnard who led William.  Sir Hugh walked next to me and said, "I should warn you, my lord, there are visitors here.  They are friends of Sir Barnard." There was a warning in his voice and so I was not as surprised as I might have been when I entered the hall.
    As soon as I walked into the room I saw my Nemesis, Stephen of Blois. What was he doing here? I had learned to put on a face to meet my enemies.  I smiled as I was led to the high table.  I was, apart from Stephen of Blois, the most noble of the knights around the table.  I would receive respect. I saw faces turn to me.  My name was known as was my reputation. Some of those I saw I recognised.  Not all were friends.  I recognised some coats of arms and remembered them as being those who had fought alongside the Scots. I smiled, nonetheless.
    Sir Barnard had a chair brought for William between him and me.  Stephen of Blois was moved down and I had to endure his company.  I wondered how long I could feign friendship. "Congratulations Earl! Your star is rising!"
    "Thank you, my lord.  I have been lucky."
    "It is said that a man makes his own luck and you have certainly taken advantage of all of your opportunities."
    I lifted the goblet of wine which had been poured. "I raise a goblet to a fine warrior who was true to his king and true to his friends." I chose the toast deliberately.  I wanted to see Stephen’s reaction.
    Those within hearing distance raised their goblets too. I saw the briefest of frowns flash across Stephen's face.  He knew that I was aware of his treachery.  He had tried to have me killed before now. “Thank you Earl.  A kind sentiment.”
    I put the wine down and asked, "What brings you here, my lord?  You are far from your lands in Blois.  Did you know Sir Guy?"
    "I know his son.  He is a friend of mine." I lodged that information in my head. "I hear that the Empress is in London." We were like two knights sparring.  He changed the direction of the conversation.
    I was equally capable of feinting and using deception.  I lied. "Is she?  I had not heard.  As you must realise, my lord, the north is far from the places of power like London, Caen, Rouen and Blois."
    He shook his head and held his goblet out for more wine. "Blois is a backwater now. It is a land of old men who remember the days of glory