King Henry's Champion Read Online Free PDF Page B

I assumed it was to gather intelligence for the King of England.  Why else would you go?”
    I had given him a way out and he took the bait like a fish with a juicy worm. “Well I do try to keep abreast of what our neighbours are doing.  We are in a parlous position here.  But, of course, I do have lands north of the border too and family also.”
    “Then you will know their feelings.  I assume that as you already knew the news of the male heir the Scots will too.”
    “Of course and they are happy for the Empress and the King.  Do not forget that King David and the King are kin.”
    I sipped the wine appreciatively, smacking my lips, “A good wine.”
    “Thank you, my lord.”
    “And yet the Scots continue to press for the return of Cumbria.  Surely now that Henry has been born and is the male heir, it means they have less chance of gaining that prize?” he did not answer.  “Still I can see why you might be worried. Are not your Scottish lands just to the north of Cumbria?”
    “And that is why they will be safe my lord for my family will ensure that the border there is not used by any invading army!”
    I fought to control my face.  He had slipped up. I had hoped that his tongue would be loosened by my barrage of questions and it was.  I smiled, “Excellent.  When next I write to the King I will tell him of your diligence and loyalty.”
    Tight lipped at first I gradually elicited much information from him. It seemed that King David was increasing his power north of the border. He had arranged for the marriage of Matad, Mormaer of Athol to the daughter of Haakon Paulsson, Earl of Orkney.  That marriage, to the earl’s only child, would bring the northern islands and their fighting men into the Kingdom of Scotland.  Already my visit had been beneficial.  King David might have appeared to have accepted peace but in reality he was arming himself for a conflict.
    I retired when my host was in his cups and his men took him to bed. I said nothing to my men.  I would wait until we were on the road to discuss what we had all learned.
    Before we left I clasped hands with Sir Barnard, “Thank you for your hospitality and I am pleased that I can report to the King of your fidelity however I have to take you to task.”
    His face paled, “What have I done wrong? How have I offended you, Earl?”
    “There are bandits and outlaws in the forests hereabouts.  They prey on travellers.  Perhaps you should spend more time here in your home making it safe for the King’s subjects. I command you to clear the land of all outlaws and brigands. There are many who fought in rebellions.  These are dangerous men.”
    He looked relieved, “I apologise and you are right.  I will make that a priority.”
    When we were well clear of the castle and on the road to Hexham I waved Wulfric forward.  “Well my friend, what did you learn?”
    “Where did the Baron say he and his men had been, my lord?”
    “In his lands to the north west.”
    Wulfric shook his head, “He was in Edinburgh where he met with the King and other leaders such as the Red Comyn and the Earl Gospatric.”
    “That is interesting.  Now why should he lie?”
    I was almost speaking to myself but Wulfric knew me well enough to answer me, “Perhaps because there are many camps to the south of Edinburgh.  An army is being prepared.  It is mainly Northumbrians under the hand of the Earl Gospatric but there are also mercenaries from Ireland and the Scottish lords of Lothian.”
    “You have done well, Wulfric.  Thank you.” He was about to ride back to the men at arms but I held his reins. “Stay.  I would have you hear my words too for I discovered much last night and when I tell my knights then you should hear too.”
    Sir Richard said, “I heard all that you did, my lord and I learned naught.”
    Sir Edward laughed, “Nor did I but I saw from the Earl’s face that he did.”
    “Sir Barnard said an invading army would not come through his