“…and then he found out Anthony Woodville was put forward by Elizabeth as a bridegroom instead,” Richard took up the story, “which sent George into a vengeful fury against Elizabeth. Hence the unprovoked and cavalier condemnation and meting out of justice for poor Ankarette Twynyho with no proof.” He looked at his two companions, his face grave. “He acted as though he were king, and that is tantamount to treason.” He let the word hang in the room for a few seconds before adding, “My brother has been arrested and placed in the Tower.”

Rob had no more wind for whistling as he stared open-mouthed at Richard.

“Whatever should I do?” Richard asked looking from one to the other. “George has brought this on himself, and I cannot condone his actions, yet it is hard to think of him languishing in a Tower prison.” He expelled a dispirited sigh. There was a time when he might have written an appeal to Edward, but that was long ago and before George’s many betrayals had hardened Richard’s heart.

Richard made the journey to London in January to attend George’s trial. As well as the Twynyho incident, more treasonable actions would be laid at George’s feet during it: A servant in his household was accused, tried, and executed for purportedly agreeing to use necromancy to bring about Edward’s death; rumors of Edward’s bastardy were circulated by his followers; George had assisted in yet another rising against the king that came to naught; and the final straw for the benevolent Edward was getting word direct from King Louis that George had planned on using his marriage to Mary of Burgundy as a stepping stone to the English throne. Richard was appalled and lost any shred of sympathy he might have once had for his wayward brother.

“How could Parliament not try him, Richard?” Edward said, clearly disturbed. “’Twas they not I who decided on that, but it is I who must condemn him or not. Jesu, what should I do?”