In the days since, Bedford has called Richard to him often, shown favour, talked to him of a campaign that will follow the King’s crowning, as if he might have a part in it. He has introduced him to his captains, William de la Pole chief among them, who is between them in age and easy company. Bedford, who is inclined to be dour, laughs easily in William’s company. Sometimes, now, all three laugh together. Her cardinal uncle, Cecily notes, is close by at such times, nodding, pleased. He’s close now too, seemingly intent upon his dinner, pretending not to listen.

Now the wine jug comes to rest and Cecily’s eyes are drawn to Gloucester as he turns their way, pulls his napkin from his shoulder and clears his throat to speak. He’s fourteen months Bedford’s junior but it could be fourteen years at least. The urbane lord who spends his days managing Henry’s English kingdom looks decidedly less careworn than weather-beaten Bedford, who has spent the last ten years and more fighting for his French one.

‘Richard,’ Gloucester says, ‘once Christmas is done we leave Paris. Head back to Calais. My brother stays in France, of course, but you and I will have the King safe home before St George’s Day.’

She glances at Richard, notes his caution and surprise. ‘I’d thought,’ he says, carefully, ‘we’d stay longer in France. Let the King be seen in his kingdom?’

Cecily knew Bedford’s hope had rested on Henry’s continued presence, wonders why he’s acquiesced. Perhaps he’s concluded, just as she has during these months in Henry’s company, that France wouldn’t be much impressed by him.

‘He’s needed in England,’ Gloucester growls. ‘You’ve work there too,’ and he turns away, down the table, to join his wife.

She feels in her own breast the sigh Bedford heaves as he draws his hands down the length of his face. He looks up at them with something attempting to be a smile. ‘It’s for the best,’ he says. ‘For all of us. For you, certainly.’

Richard watches Gloucester walk away then turns back to Bedford. His hopes, Cecily knows, had rested on staying here to serve with Bedford; to prove himself loyal beyond Joan’s burning. ‘I’d thought,’ he says, ‘to help you push Charles back from Rheims.’