“As you are aware, these proceedings have been carried over several times before,” Richard went on, “since the matter is so grave. It was hoped Father Stephen of Ravenglass might grace us with his presence, so that the opinion of the church might be obtained, especially on the charge of sorcery.” There was a little gasp of horror from the assembly as this word was spoken. “I am advised that this will not now be possible, and the matter can be delayed no longer. I welcome Father Dominic of Whitehaven, who has traveled here as the bishop’s representative in Father Stephen’s place.” Was I imagining things, or did Richard sound just a little out of sorts at this change? “The proceedings will be as follows,” he went on, and now I was sure of it. There was an edge to his voice, the same tone it took on when he debated a point with Red and came out worse off. Something had rattled him. “This morning the evidence against the girl will be heard and assessed. Later in the day she will be given the opportunity to make what case she can in her own defense. I will question her, and Father Dominic also may choose to do so. If any member of this moot has a real concern in this matter, he too may speak in turn. I will deliver judgment and pronounce the penalty this same day, and this troublesome case will be settled once and for all.”

“Very well, very well.” Father Dominic was reaching across, helping himself to a sheet of parchment, picking up a quill. Apparently quite used to this behavior, his scribe edged the ink pot closer. “What exactly are the charges against this young woman?”

“Firstly, spying, for the purpose of passing on information to her husband’s enemies. She has made no denial of her origins among those Irish chieftains who battle us for control of the islands. Second, the reception of an outlaw, one of her own kind with no business in these parts. Thirdly, the use of the sorcerer’s art for purposes of mischief and disturbance of this household. All three offenses are part of the same plot. The penalty for each of these offenses is death.”

“I’m aware of that. And what witnesses are to be called?”

“Several, Father. I myself am the principal witness in the case against her.”

I saw Father Dominic nod, his face impassive. Above the collar of his dark robe, there were rolls of fat under his chin. His small eyes were very shrewd.

“Very well. You had better proceed.” He turned to me. “Listen well, young woman. For in due time you will be called upon to account for yourself.”

I stared back at him, and his eyes narrowed.

“Can this girl understand our tongue?” He turned toward Richard with a little frown. “She seems scarcely to hear what is said around her. And she looks unwell. I would hazard a guess that something is amiss with her. She can hardly be expected to make a case for herself if she cannot comprehend the evidence.”