‘I can think of no finer man to leave him with, but the risk is too great for both of you. If I keep him close then he has a better chance and brings no threat to your door. He is a witness to murder and the assassin might be close to the King. Lázaro might identify him.’

‘I understand. Know that if you ever have need of my help you only have to send word.’ The physician raised an arm towards the darkest corner of the synagogue. A young Spaniard, in his teens perhaps, stepped into the light.

‘This is Andrés. His family have farmed in the mountains for generations. He is a Christian of good faith and I have helped his family in the past. I trust him. I have asked him to take you through the safest places to avoid ambush or injury. He is a shepherd and knows the country as I know my own hand. He should ride with us and see what route the King’s guide suggests. If it is safe, Andrés will return home. If it is not, then he will take you to Burgos. I will translate whatever needs to be said between you.’

Blackstone acknowledged the boy’s presence and then faced the elderly physician. ‘You know that sooner or later Navarre will make a deal with the French and the routiers. He will betray you to them if he is so inclined. The victor determines the conditions of surrender. If there is a pawn to be offered up to help him make a suitable truce it might be the Jews here who suffer.’

Ben Josef smiled. ‘When the English and French expelled us it was Navarre and Castile who took us in. We are grateful to the Spanish Kings for accepting us along with our Muslim and Christian brothers. Navarre and Castile defy the Pope’s orders for us to wear an identifying mark on our clothes. So we are wary of speaking out against either of these Kings. We do not wish to abuse the freedom to live, trade and worship that has been granted to us. Beyond that we know that we live a precarious existence. Like you.’

CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN

The following day Blackstone’s men gathered, ready to leave Pamplona. Blackstone had no desire to stay confined in the city. They had granted him a guide and two of the Navarrese fighters rescued from de Hayle’s prison had requested they stay with the men. Their Spanish would be helpful and he kept them under the command of Beyard, who understood their language. The one-armed Tibalt had not been seen since they entered the city.

‘Sir Thomas, this man has been sent as our guide,’ said William Ashford, presenting one of Navarre’s men. He wore a grease-streaked jerkin beneath his cloak. There was no visible sign of the King’s blazon.