I spoke suddenly. ‘I suppose there is no motive for anyone on the reformist side of the council to steal the Lamentation?’

He shook his head. ‘None. The reformist group at court, like every faction, is an alliance of family interests – between the Parrs, the Seymours and the Dudleys, whose foremost figure is John Dudley, Lord Lisle. When, in course of time – ’ he stressed those words carefully – ‘his majesty is gathered to God, the various family interests may find themselves in conflict. But for the present we are united by our common faith. If Henry does agree to take England back under the authority of the Pope, we shall all be in danger, and must run and fetch our rosaries or face a grim death.’ He sighed with unexpected emotion. ‘When I think of that, I thank God I am a sick old man.’

We stood in silence for a moment. Then I said thoughtfully, ‘But if Sir Thomas is one of those who has no religion, and seeks only power, he might see an advantage in taking the Lamentation to the King – ’

Lord Parr looked at me, frowning. ‘Why? From ambition?’

‘That, and perhaps because he courted the Queen before her marriage, and was rejected. Proud men harbour thoughts of revenge. And finding the Lamentation could give him the status in the King’s eyes that he longs for.’

Lord Parr considered for a moment. ‘Earlier in the summer, though few know of it, there were attempts to unite the reformist and traditionalist factions through a marriage between the Duke of Norfolk’s daughter and Thomas Seymour. The negotiations came to nothing, partly because the Duke’s daughter did not want him.’

‘That surely proves he will bend any way to gain power.’

Lord Parr shook his head decisively. ‘No. Thomas Seymour does not have the intelligence, nor the resources, to send spies into the radical groups. I think your dislike of him, Master Shardlake, justified though it may be, is colouring your judgement.’

‘Possibly,’ I admitted reluctantly. ‘But who in court would have motive and money to do that?’