‘The Queen gave him her crucifix moments before she died, and now he wishes to bring it here, receive your blessing and place the crucifix on St James’s tomb.’

The Archbishop’s compassion was plain to see. ‘Tomorrow. Bring him through the Puerta de las Platerías.’ He gestured to the right of where they stood. ‘It is closest to here. I will receive the child and give thanks for his courage. He shall have his wish.’

‘Your grace, he is guarded and cared for by my Gascon captain Beyard. Is it acceptable that he brings the boy to you?’

‘Yes. What is this child’s name?’

‘Lázaro.’

CHAPTER SEVENTY-TWO

Álvaraz stood by the King’s quarters, watching Blackstone and his companions return from the city. The Englishman’s first duty should have been to attend the King; instead he sought one of his captains and the boy servant. Whatever he said to them caused the boy to bend his knee to Blackstone, who gently raised him up and put a hand on the boy’s head. The smiling lad turned away as Blackstone continued to talk to the Gascon and finally strode towards the King.

‘Is there news?’ he asked Blackstone.

Blackstone shook his head. ‘I might as well have told the Archbishop I was bringing plague into the city.’

Álvaraz’s heart sank. ‘Sir Thomas, I have served this King all my life. He is a bold and fearless fighter; he suffered when we abandoned you at the bridge. He did not wish others to fight his battles for him. Since then he has become increasingly torn in himself. I am not here to defend him, but he is still young and they have seized everything that is rightfully his. He has nothing. The Archbishop’s approval was his last hope of recognition for his kingdom.’

‘I can’t help how he feels. I’m here to get him back to Aquitaine: beyond that I care nothing for him.’

Álvaraz had the look of a defeated man. ‘He’s had too much wine,’ he warned.

‘I don’t give a damn. We leave for Corunna tomorrow,’ said Blackstone. ‘I’ll tie him to his horse if I have to. Stay here.’

Blackstone stepped into the King’s room. There was enough evidence of copious wine having been drunk and Blackstone saw no reason to disguise bad news with good manners. Without formality he told Don Pedro the result of his meeting with the Archbishop.