I held off opening the letter until I had unpacked the pannier – a cone of sugar, crocks of honey, a wineskin (mead, I later discovered), and packets of dried fruit, rice and spices. Exulting in this sudden and delicious plenty, I placed the empty pannier and a clean chemise beside the dairy cistern downstairs. Back in the hall, I still resisted reading the letter; I stirred up the fire, swung the pottage cauldron over it, lit a lamp, and only then sat down in my father’s carved black oak armchair with the letter in my hands, my fingers cracking the wax of the smudged bird seal. The writing was spidery but at the same time words were cramped closely together to fit on the page. I made slow progress but as I read my heart was wrenched, first one way and then another.

To Jane Hywel of Tŷ Cerrig in the county of Gwynedd, North Wales

I write to share with you the dreadful news that my brother Edmund died in Carmarthen Castle a few days ago. We had heard only lately that he had been held prisoner there since August, when he was captured leading an attempt to regain it for the king. As Earl of Richmond, Edmund should have been ransomed immediately but news of his capture was kept from us, and from Margaret, who is now his widow. For he lies in Greyfriars Church at Carmarthen and I know you will join me in praying for his soul.

William Herbert, who holds Carmarthen illegally, claims Edmund was taken by the plague but my agents report no evidence of plague in the town. I am determined to discover the truth of his untimely demise.

His countess is bereaved and alone at Lamphey Palace. I write from Kenilworth where King Henry has made me her guardian and ordered me to take her to the safety of Pembroke and so I have entrusted this letter to Maredudd in the hope that you may agree to ride with him and join us there as soon as possible. Lady Margaret, although mature beyond her tender years, will have need of a sympathetic female companion to advise and comfort her and I can think of no better person than you for such a sensitive position. Maredudd also carries a letter to your father requesting his permission to let you leave as soon as possible. I feel sure that in the circumstances he will find it in his heart to allow you to come to Lady Margaret’s aid, if only for a few months.

Written in haste and in the hope of greeting you soon at Pembroke, I am your faithful friend and cousin,

Jasper.