Although his position in Arles was princely, there were rumours in the town, no doubt reaching the Count of Provence, that some of the Lionheart’s knights had taken refuge with the Templars. Of course, the Templars were duty bound to help pilgrims who had been to the Holy Land, but these were not ordinary pilgrims; the rumours had it that they were important men, carrying something of importance with them. The region was in even more turmoil than usual, and Soliers had to avoid offending the powerful. Particularly he had to avoid the impression that the Templars were becoming a law unto themselves. He called Henry of Huntingdon to his chambers. Soliers was wearing the white surplice that Knights Templars were obliged to wear at all times. ‘Henry, you have become a good and true friend.’ ‘Thank you. You, Master, have in turn been a generous host and an honest friend. You wanted to speak to me?’ ‘Yes, it is a delicate matter. Nobody here has broken silence, but nonetheless there are rumours in the town about the knights lodging with us.
