The Follies of the King Read Online Free PDF

he was banished from court, he had bowed his head and accepted the exile. It had been irritating, but it would be simply dreadful if his father began blaming Perrot and decided to part them.
    He guessed that when his father did banish Gaveston— a few months before his death— that this affair had first put the idea to do so in his head.
    So now Perrot reminded him of the time they had broken into Langston’s wood he remembered not only the incident but the parting with Perrot which had followed and a great anger rose in him against Langton who had been one of their worst enemies.
    ‘And he remains your treasurer,’ pointed out Gaveston. ‘Dear friend, you are too good to that old rogue.’
    ‘Someone will have to replace him.’
    ‘But indeed it is so and there is our old friend, that other Walter. He is just waiting for his chance, and sweet Prince, why should he not have it?’
    ‘Reynolds!’ cried the King.
    ‘Who else? Has he not served us― you― well?’
    ‘You are right. It shall be. Who shall we send for first?’
    ‘Let’s have our Sport with the Bishop.’
    Edward slapped his thigh with excitement. How different from when they had been taken to his presence like humble foresters. Now it was his turn.
    ‘Let’s tell Reynolds,’ said Gaveston. ‘We’ll hide him in the chamber and he can hear the great man receive his dismissal.’
    ‘You always think of the most
amusing
things, Perrot.’
    ‘It is my duty to amuse my lord. Sometimes I think my role is that of court jester.’
    ‘There never was a more handsome, witty and charming one― nor such a rich one.’
    ‘There’s truth in that, I’ll swear. Now to the fun.’

    * * *

    The Bishop received his dismissal with dignity. It was clear though that he would soon join up with Lancaster and Lincoln, Warwick and such malcontents who were already raising their eyebrows at the King’s preoccupation with Gaveston even though Gaveston had been recently married. He was rarely with his wife and that marriage had obviously been a means of bringing him a fortune.
    ‘I will be magnanimous, my lord,’ said the Bishop as he departing, ‘and ask God to help you.’
    ‘But, my dear Bishop,’ said Gaveston, ‘it is you who will need His help and I am sure that, seeing the pious life you have led, He will not deny it now.’
    The Bishop ignored Gaveston. Poor Perrot, that angered him more than anything. He could not bear to be treated though he were of no importance.
    Walter Reynolds came in, rubbing his hands together.
    ‘My lords, my lords, it was as good as one of our plays. You showed him the door, indeed you did. I’ll warrant the old prelate is trembling in his shoes.’
    ‘Methinks he was expecting it, Walter,’ said Perrot. ‘He could not hope to go on in office after all he has done to our gracious King.’

‘Well, Walter,’ said Edward, ‘what would you say if I set you in the old rogue’s shoes and made you my treasurer?’
    Walter’s answer was to go down on his knees and kiss the King’s hand.
    ‘Walter,’ said Edward. ‘You deserve your honour. Serve me well and there will be more. I remember my friends.’
    ‘And must not forget your enemies, dear Prince,’ said Gaveston.
    ‘Nor shall I. It was good fun, was it not― seeing the old fellow brought low?’
    ‘Now we shall cease to be plagued and must think of others who have offended you.’
    ‘And of those who have been my friends. I intend they shall never regret it.’
    ‘This is a great day for those who long to serve you well, my lord. I shall let it be known that good and loyal friends had cause for happiness this day. Even our little drummer Francekin shall have a pair of kettle drums.’
    ‘That pleases me,’ said Gaveston. ‘Francekin is a good little nakerer and pretty withal.’
    They were happy together making plans for the future.

    * * *

    The tournament had been planned to take place in the old town of Walingford which was situated in the Thames