Some madman nailed a severed hand to the door of St Paul’s. It happened just before the King opened Parliament. Then, after the first session ended, a foot was found, nailed to the door of the Guildhall.’ ‘Why would anybody do such a horrible thing?’ ‘Speculation’s rife, as you can imagine. There was no written message. But let’s talk about you—’ She stood up abruptly. ‘No, really – I-I think I’ll go to my chamber and change my garments. They smell of river water and it’s beginning to make me feel sick. I must wash …’ ‘Of course, I’m being thoughtless. Let me escort you. I warn you, from now on you won’t be let out of our sight until we’re all safely back in Yorkshire. This city’s a nest of madmen. Even I’m having to watch my back all the time.’ They moved towards the door and his men pocketed their dice and followed. ‘When your friar sent that message to say you were alive and well, Roger tried to insist that you stay with us on the Strand.
