Warwick makes a move. Good, good.
Judging English nobles in Calais is a sneaky move. Still, allegiance to Margaret is shameful...
Judging English nobles in Calais is a sneaky move. Still, allegiance to Margaret is shameful...
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And the gangster angle derives somewhat from what I mentioned before. Just the realization that these are 15th century mafiosos in many respects.
To all - We have reached a rather momentous occasion, dear readers. Well, I have at any rate. Over the weekend I completed the rough draft of chapter 21 in which I reached a moment in the story I have been anticipating for quite a long time. As above, it will be some time before you read it but I do hope that it is enjoyed when it comes. However, we remain in chapter 15 and due to the holiday tomorrow here in the states, allow me to finish with the latest scene which will follow directly.
As always, thank you so very much for your support and readership. I do this for the joy of writing, and your comments make it so much more enjoyable.
That's the thing about Woodvilles. They change sides so quickly.
Oh, there will indeed be forks. In fact, I've just finished writing through one of the biggest to come. It'll be awhile before it's published, but something to look forward to.
Nice to see the frisson of alt-history excitement here and a reminder that, despite adhering so far mainly to the historical arc, there is the promise of forks in the road ahead.
I could tell.
Ditto.
Clearly, yes, even if it’s sometimes a stern chase.
Looking forward to it. More to follow later.
I do rather like the side of Edward comfortable with "slumming it" as it were. IRL, he was a man known for many vices and so this side of him seems natural.I was going through picking out the great lines, but then realised I was going to end up quoting half the chapter. Edward should definitely be sent out undercover more often if this is the dialogue that results.
That said I think my absolute favourite line was;
Because it comes with such classic gangster polite understatement. It needed Edward to follow up "The Lord of Warwick hears you've been a very naughty boy Rivers, he is... disappointed in you.", but then I suppose this would be a very different sort of work if he did.
In any event, another excellent chapter and not just because of seeing the Woodville's humbled, though that is a sight to warm anybody's heart.
And the gangster angle derives somewhat from what I mentioned before. Just the realization that these are 15th century mafiosos in many respects.
Warwick will try and take any advantage that he can and it just proves what a powerful base Calais was at the time.
To all - We have reached a rather momentous occasion, dear readers. Well, I have at any rate.
Over the weekend I completed the rough draft of chapter 21 in which I reached a moment in the story I have been anticipating for quite a long time. As above, it will be some time before you read it but I do hope that it is enjoyed when it comes. However, we remain in chapter 15 and due to the holiday tomorrow here in the states, allow me to finish with the latest scene which will follow directly.As always, thank you so very much for your support and readership. I do this for the joy of writing, and your comments make it so much more enjoyable.
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Calais, January 1460
When they landed at Calais, they were met by Sir John Wenlock and given fine greeting. Lord Rivers remained furious but Jacquetta was stoic. The Baron was even more upset when told that they could not enter the town until nightfall so as not to excite the sympathies of the inhabitants.
“Yes, because they would know me here!” Rivers declared.
Wenlock merely bowed, “Your patience is appreciated, my Lord.”
Once they were allowed into the town and the castle itself, they were instantly placed to captivity and under guard. For three days. It was not until 28 January that Sir John Wenlock came to retrieve them and was as ever the perfect servant, “My Lord of Warwick would see you now.”
“This is outrageous!” Anthony Woodville shouted and Wenlock merely smiled.
“You are most welcome.”
Marched through the castle, finally they were met by Lord Fauconberg who ushered them into the hall. It was lit by many torches and a roaring fire and the Earl of Warwick leaned with his arm to a chair and his feet crossed. His face was shadowed but the grin on his lips was unmistakable. Behind him stood his father the Earl of Salisbury. Unlike the son, the elder Earl held a large frown to his face.
Baron Fauconberg led them to some stools in the middle of the hall, “If you would please sit. These Lords would have some thing to say.”
“Richard Neville...father and son!!” Lord Rivers showed his anger, “I have known you both as reasonable men. This is not reasonable...this is no thing less than treason, sirs!!”
The Earl of Warwick rounded his chair and approached, “One should be careful with words, sir. They mean so much. Especially as I find that the ones calling another traitor are often those that practice treason on their own.”
“That is preposterous!” Rivers objected, “I serve the King!”
“The King, sir?” Warwick pressed, “Or the Queen?”
Lord Rivers replied immediately, “They are one and the same!”
“And you are a fool to think so, my Lord,” Salisbury followed his son, “The one is a man we honor and hold high and the other takes whatever good the King provides and turns it to her own. I have been hunted, sir! My sons have been hunted and two now reside to the Tower by her own pleasure! You would be a knave’s son if you would be so rude as to call us traitors when you will find that we are the true liege men of His Grace the King and not those such that pretend!”
Warwick rounded his father and continued to lecture the Baron, “I shall rate you, sir! No thing but the son of a squire and made by marriage. It is not your part to have such language of Lords being of the King’s blood!”
“You make war, my Lords,” Rivers admonished them, “There is no other word for it when you go against your very King!”
“We make war?” Warwick was shocked, “Or is war thrust upon us? If the King’s desire of peace is true, then it cannot be any other but the Queen that harass us. Attempts to kill me and pressing such a large force towards my father that he held little choice but to protect and defend himself?”
Salisbury followed, “Chased us down as if we were already declared villains without trial...without recourse to the King’s grace.”
“If you would raise an army against your King, you have no right to that recourse!” Anthony Woodville answered with strength.
Lord Rivers held up a hand to silence him, “He is as strong willed as his father, pray excuse. Yet it is plain, my Lords, His Grace is threatened and will act accordingly. If you wish the King’s grace, you would release us at the now.”
“I am afraid that is a thing that they may not do, my Lord,” Edward spoke up from the doorway having silently entered the hall and watched the ordeal, “For it is true, my Lord Rivers...you hold not the King’s blood. As we do. As I do. And when you speak to me, you speak to my father who all know has only ever fought and been persecuted by low men that would think to know the King’s mind better than he. A Lord twice removed from the children of Edward named the third!”
Warwick grinned and looked to the younger Woodville, “And you, sir, are no more than a squire. Best left for the adults to speak.”
The Duchess Jacquetta finally raised her head high and spoke, “Traitors or no, my Lords...you do realize that you hold the very King’s aunt as we speak? And many young girls around me that are not safe to this place. Whatever you do, know that the King will be sorely vexed to know of this.”
“I think a very good point, cousin,” Edward moved fully into the light and Elizabeth recognized him.
“You?!” she startled.
The young Earl offered her a charming smile and then turned to Warwick, “Would it not be in good faith to return the Lady and her daughters...as pretty as they be?”
Salisbury followed, “I believe it to be true. Show the King that we are not the barbarians so many others prove.”
“Very well, my Lady...” Warwick bowed to her, “...I shall see you and your daughters home.”
Lord Rivers questioned, “Yet what of us...I and my son...my men? What is to be done with us?”
“We think mayhap to grant you quite good accommodations,” Edward playfully announced, “Perhaps for the duration.”
Warwick grinned, “My Lord of March is correct, sir. My two brothers are to the Tower and I believe you very good protection for their own. Now...be gone with you. I have other matters with which to attend.”
The lot of them were removed rudely yet Sir John Wenlock remained kind, “If you would follow me.”
Once gone, Lord Fauconberg was the first to speak, “As an old war horse, I have to say that the Duchess was correct. Do not make your enemy angered. King Henry will take this personally.”
“As well he should,” Warwick proudly proclaimed.
Edward followed him, “And it is not his ire we worry about. It is hers. Let us hold our eyes to the very prize, my Lords.”
The Earl of Salisbury moved to his nephew, “You are suddenly quite keen.”
“I am no thing of the sort, uncle,” Edward smiled, “I merely know my father’s desire. There is no victory without leverage and it is not the King we fight but the Queen. And Lord Rivers is her man. This hurts her far more than it does us.”
Lord Fauconberg again questioned, “Yet I still know not the goal. My nephew...when last we spoke, you suggested that Lord Richard would be King. Now that you return...I must ask question. Is this what we truly want?”
“Why would you say that?” Salisbury looked to his son, “That has never been our goal and Lord Richard would be the first to say that I am right!”
The Earl moved to sit by the hearth, “Father...dear uncle...you both know what is the true end here, do you not? There is no manner of way to return to England and gain the good graces of the King. Not now. We are beyond that. The only way to regain our possessions...our lives...is to see to her end.”
“And the King would never readily agree,” Edward followed his cousin and stood behind him, “So the only answer is to gain possession of his body and rule through him, if we may.”
Salisbury showed them an old grin, “You act as if we have never attempted that before.”
“Aye!” Warwick was quick to admit but held his grin, “Yet you’ve always had to deal with her. I did not say allowing Henry to rule. That is what she does because she must. No, sir! I said rule through him such that he is in name only. We are all...those of us who stand here...powerful magnates with extensive lands. We’ve all of us large retainers. The King depends upon his taxes...those that he may raise by Parliament. Yet how many tenths has he asked for to pay his debt? Her debt!! No! Find the King, take him to London and show his face and then get on with the business!”
“And the Queen?” Salisbury questioned.
Warwick smiled to his father, “Sometimes...one must break eggs.”
End of Chapter 15
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I wonder when they are to realize that to have the power, they need to be the power.
At least they know that the Queen needs to be deposed. It's just a shame that they don't yet realize they need to depose the King as well, as he is far too forgiving and nowhere near decisive.
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I can see the logic of trying to be the power behind the throne as an actual coup is still a step too far, perhaps not morally but certainly in terms of provoking more enemies. Plenty of Lords want the Queen gone and a return to solid government, but would still recoil from overthrowing God's anointed. So from that perspective the King is ideal, he is weak, indecisive and generally pliable. He's happy to spend all day at prayer while others get on with actually ruling. If the Queen can use him as a puppet well so can they.
To riff on Kurtie's response, they don't want the trappings of power (the crown or the throne) they want to wield power and, at the moment, are happy to have Henry as the puppet up front while they have control behind the scenes. Long term that might change, but with a war on that's a problem for the future.
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They are wrong. How many times York was the Protector just to get kicked the bottom and forced to start all over again? Even if the got rid of god old Maggie, there is going to be someone to step into her shoes to oppose good old Dickon Plantagenet and his happy children and allies.
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That is typically what the English did when they had a weak or rubbish king. Unfortunately this time, the barons and nobles have the extra issue of a scheming spouse.
The only solution that's ever worked in regards to those have been overthrowing the king.
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Up to speed again! Poor old Judd - never really saw it coming, when he should. Ah well, not the first or last to pay the ultimate price - by a long shot. Warwick is now in his element!
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Still working my way forward, Coz...
I have long thought myself to have a decent grasp on history, but your story shows me how little I know about this period of English and generally European history. To be fair, I've always declared my interest to start at about 1500, growing as we approach the 19th and 20th Centuries. You have a firm grasp, to be able to converse and write about it so. Learning much as we go.
More fine scenes on page 11, and I'm on to 12. Thank you!
Rensslaer
I have long thought myself to have a decent grasp on history, but your story shows me how little I know about this period of English and generally European history. To be fair, I've always declared my interest to start at about 1500, growing as we approach the 19th and 20th Centuries. You have a firm grasp, to be able to converse and write about it so. Learning much as we go.
More fine scenes on page 11, and I'm on to 12. Thank you!
Rensslaer
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To all - For the past few days, I have been working on the story going forward. We just finished Chapter 15 and as it stands today, I have six full further chapters ready to post in due time. I don't mind saying, I think it's some good stuff. And last night, I worked through the outline for the two that follow those so I hope to get working on that soon. Finally, I plotted it roughly for another decade. I need to get some play time in because the last time I played, I saved the game at the start of 1470. All that it to say that we aren't going anywhere anytime soon.
I do not believe that I could have accomplished any of it without your firm support so once again thank you!! I've always stated that I had the very best readers in all of AARland because it is true. Back tomorrow as we start Chapter 16.
It may still take some time. And for Edward and Warwick, they have to be a bit careful not to let the cat out of the bag if they are thinking a much larger change.
It is a tricky proposition. But as said several posts back, all of the leaders of the court party are pretty much dead (the Cardinal, Suffolk and Somerset the elder) so it's all on the Queen now.
As has been mentioned before (and will be mentioned again within the work), deposing a King is not as easy as it sounds. The oath means quite a lot to these men, especially at this time when the church is everything and as you say - like it or not Henry is God's anointed. Self interest certainly plays into any eventual action, but to get all the Lords like ducks in a row is never easy in the best of times. I'd also think a real choice would have to be on offer if they were to do it. As powerful and wealthy as he is, Richard just is not loved. Either because of jealousy or he's just generally unlikable, who can say. But when offered in the past as merely head of Council, he eventually gets knocked back down. See below to Kurt...
Very true. Of course, part of that thinking is what may get them to finally take it for themselves. What is suggested by the Earls is somewhat that but I would agree, may not be far enough. We shall see.
At this point, I don't think it had happened but twice - Edward II and Richard II (not counting the Saxon and Danish Kings prior.) And with the former, eventually it was his son that came out on top. At this point in 1460, just mentioning it is treason.
As you might have noticed, I meant that scene to stand alone in many ways. It of course is there to set the mood of the country at the time, but I liked just telling one man's little tale of the day even if it ended very badly for him. I was actually thinking very fondly of one of my favorite sections from @Director's History Park: Who Wants to be Napoleon? in which the entire post is built around one cannon's journey through history.
Thank you again for diligently reading through what by now has grown rather large. I do appreciate it. And good to hear on the history. This particular period up through the Tudors has always been one of my favorite bits of history so I've read quite a lot about it over the years. Even there, I learn something new about it every time.
To all - For the past few days, I have been working on the story going forward. We just finished Chapter 15 and as it stands today, I have six full further chapters ready to post in due time. I don't mind saying, I think it's some good stuff.
And last night, I worked through the outline for the two that follow those so I hope to get working on that soon. Finally, I plotted it roughly for another decade. I need to get some play time in because the last time I played, I saved the game at the start of 1470. All that it to say that we aren't going anywhere anytime soon. I do not believe that I could have accomplished any of it without your firm support so once again thank you!! I've always stated that I had the very best readers in all of AARland because it is true. Back tomorrow as we start Chapter 16.
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Chapter 16: To Council or Counsel
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Coventry, February 1460
* * *
Coventry, February 1460
King Henry sat pensively at the head of his great Council table and looked to the Lords temporal and spiritual. He was not comfortable and did not like even thinking these things, much less speaking them. With a nervous tone he shifted his gaze to the Bishop of Winchester, “We think prayer in order, my Lord.”
“God Almighty would require no less,” the Chancellor bade them all to bow and then offered his words.
The King listened as much as he could but kept his eyes to the various magnates seated to the table. Not a one of them could he could trust. Mayhap Buckingham...but not the rest. They would tell him everything they would desire and none of what he pleased. Just like his wife the Queen. York did it too, but at least he professed...what did he profess?
“...with God’s blessing His Grace the King,” the Bishop finished his prayer and then began the council, “And as we are here to his presence, let us now look to the business before us...”
“This business before us is clear,” the Earl of Wiltshire spoke out, “York denies the King’s writ within Ireland and Warwick has become an abductor. To the King’s own kin at that!”
The aging Duke of Buckingham held up an arm, “Pray silence, my Lord. Let us hear the word of the King.”
Henry looked to them all with fear. Every face with question and he held no answer. Again...why was York not here? He would know how to respond. Yet he felt the pressure and finally spoke, “We would not deny...could not sanction...this business to Sandwich is unkind...”
“Unkind, Your Grace?” Northumberland questioned, “To imprison your own kin! That be no idea of loyalty, sire!”
“The ladies have been freed, sir,” Henry allowed firm glare.
The Earl of Oxford tried to calm, “Your Grace...it has been some time since I have sat your Council, but I should like to agree with you. Clearly respect is found and these petty disturbances are no thing but that.”
“Meaning no disrespect, my Lord,” the Duke of Exeter answered him, “Yet you admit that you have not held honest word from His Grace. Not...for some time. We all see what is evident. And I believe that he would understand the urgency of what happens.”
Buckingham looked to him with irritation, “His Grace is not pulled to react. He will do what is right.”
“And what is that?” Bishop Booth of Durham questioned.
Archbishop Bourchier had kept silent but finally replied, “There is a matter of church and so too to state. These are issues with which we have never before practiced…”
The Chancellor looked askew, “We speak on matters of state. Our Lord sitting next to us is the state. What else is to be practiced but his own worth?”
Exeter turned to the Duke of Norfolk, “You are rather quiet, Mowbray. What say you?”
“I am merely watching the proceedings, my Lord,” Norfolk smiled, “I find them so educational.”
Wiltshire looked with irritation, “You sit Council to give His Grace your word, sir!”
“Oh go hide behind a barrel,” the Duke admonished the Earl and then turned to King Henry, “As you might wish my word, Your Grace, I shall give it to you as with all thing else. I fear that we rush too strongly towards a civil war by answering strength with strength instead of your usual kind and loving hand. I believe your initial instinct is the best instinct yet too many here would wish to run head long into battle.”
“I quite agree,” the Archbishop followed.
“What are we speaking of here?” the Duke of Exeter was shocked, “If you are not convinced by the actions to Blore Heath and Ludford Bridge, then surely these doings to Sandwich prove that we are already at battle, sir. If you would choose to blind yourself to such things, then who may convince you? My father in law...”
“Please do cease dropping names, my Lord,” Norfolk scoffed, “You asked me to speak. I spoke.”
The King remained nervous while they bickered and finally held up a hand, “We should...we would like to hear again from our Lord of Buckingham.”
With a sigh, the Duke stood from his chair and rounded to the back. Holding firmly he looked to the King with a sad eye, “I fear that I hold little else to offer that has not already been said. As I have ever practiced the art of peace, my own instinct is that very same. Yet I am increasing in my opinion that this Lord will not be sated by yet another change to Council or any other. It pains me, Your Grace...but I must agree with these others. This abduction from Sandwich is clearly meant as a point of invasion. The Earl holds his ships once more and a sizable garrison to Calais. While I applaud the voices of our Lord of Norfolk and Archbishop Bourchier, I can only now counsel that we must prove a protection to the realm.”
“I am surprised to hear you say so,” the Earl of Oxford suggested.
The Duke of Buckingham kept his gaze to the King, “If you still hold me as Constable of the realm, Your Grace, then I must insist that we tighten our coastal defenses and continue efforts at raising an army.”
“A more honest answer we have not heard,” the Bishop of Durham agreed.
The Earl of Northumberland raised a finger, “Should we not consider Somerset, my Lords? Your Grace? He holds fine place just south of Calais and keeps the Lord of Warwick well busy. While the Earl may make a raid here or there, his garrison is required there and not here.”
“Somerset is to Calais?” Henry appeared confused.
“Yes, Your Grace...” Northumberland replied carefully, “...or to the outskirts. Has been for some time now. You did approve it.”
Henry again looked confused, “I did? I don’t think I did.”
“You did because I went over it with you, Your Grace,” Bishop Booth quickly answered before looking to the others, “And there are two perhaps opposing points of view. Mayhap not mutually exclusive but there is always a matter of manpower.”
“Indeed quite true,” Exeter agreed, “I propose that with Lord Rivers still in captivity, that I be once more named Admiral for the fleet...”
Norfolk chuckled, “Rather cheeky of you, isn’t it? Your first foray into the job was not quite a success and should not the King be the one to task you and not the other way round?”
The Lord Chancellor tried to stop their bickering, “My Lords, if we may have calm for His Grace.”
Wiltshire spoke up, “I do see the wisdom in what is suggested. While we prepare our own defenses, the Lord of Warwick must be made to stay in Calais and allow the Lord of Somerset to flush him out.”
“If he is able,” Norfolk read at his parchments before him.
The Duke of Buckingham ignored them all and spoke directly to the King, “Your Grace, these are all thoughts and plans by your Council yet what is it that you would desire?”
“I...we?” Henry nearly backed away from the table, “We...we do not know. We are...sorely distressed by the actions of our good cousin and others...and yet we...do not wish to see such bloodshed.”
“Blood has already been shed, Your Grace!” Northumberland spoke strongly.
Henry was taken aback by his force but tried to press on, “We...we value your opinions, my Lords. Truly. And as we have prayed on the matter...we should protect God’s worth to these lands and any that would wish to destroy such may be punished not only by the Almighty but so too we. Though we like it not.”
“So you would concur with the continued raising of men?” Buckingham questioned.
Henry tried to appear certain, “I...we would. Yes.”
Wiltshire offered, “I would suggest at the first in Kent. These men have strong loyalties. Let us bind them to the crown and send them north so they be no trouble to us in London.”
“Rather they would be trouble to us in the north?” Northumberland looked at the Earl with a crooked brow.
Buckingham ignored them once more, “York would not be coming from the north, Your Grace. Yet from Ireland, he may be able to design a center of communication between himself and the Welsh that maintain loyalties to him. Might I suggest that your brother the Lord of Pembroke be given command there. Grant him control of York’s castle at Denbigh such that he may root out this system.”
“Yes...yes, very good,” Henry lightened up at the mention of his brother, “Jasper would appreciate that.”
Exeter pressed, “And to the other, Your Grace?”
“What was the other?” the King was once more confused.
“My appointment?” the Duke followed.
Henry considered it for a time before replying, “We think...we believe you more valuable to here at the now, my Lord. There are others who might control the fleet.”
“Pardon, Your Grace...” the Earl of Oxford questioned, “...yet what fleet? I believe a thing rather not addressed here is that with the taking of Lord Rivers, so too did the Earl of Warwick regain his ships and we show few and less. It does seem rather premature to appoint an admiral of a thing that does not exist.”
Buckingham grinned at the old Earl, “An astute point, my Lord. And I believe the difficulty we now move into is the coin for it all. If we are to raise both an army and a fleet...how to pay for it all. Shall you call for another Parliament, Your Grace?”
“Heavens no!” Henry was quick to reply but Wiltshire stepped in for him.
“As Treasurer, I believe His Grace has good and plenty to prosecute what surely will be a swift and overwhelming victory.”
Usually a man of reason, the Archbishop could not help it, “And you think too highly of yourself, sir! I do believe that a Parliament may be best. If no thing else, as a way to prove the temperature of the people and their mood.”
“Their mood?” Bishop Booth showed shock at his superior, “The King’s own Master of Ordnance was murdered outright on the road home from St. Albans. And see how easy it was for Warwick to not once but twice invade to Sandwich?”
Archbishop Bourchier was not ready to stand down, “Indeed. And London remains one step away from burning down such is the merchant’s displeasure. Who’s fault is that, I wonder?”
The Bishop of Durham stood and pointed his finger, “My God! A Yorkist on Council!”
“I am the Archbishop of Canterbury, sir!” Bourchier shot back, “I stand for God and the King! I would not have you accuse me in this or any other arena!”
“Indeed not,” the Bishop of Winchester again attempted to cool the temperature of the chamber, “And I believe that we have given His Grace much to consider as well as have planned for contingencies, have we not?”
When King Henry seemed to agree though more out of relief than anything, the rest gave nod and all stood to leave. Yet Booth held back and stood before the Archbishop, “If my words were strong I do apologize.”
“Save your words,” Archbishop Bourchier replied with disdain, “I know who it is that you serve, sir. It is not this King. Frankly, I wonder how you were ever made to serve God as I see no grace within you. And you may tell the Queen that I said so.”
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If only the Council of the King were as good as fighting York as they are as quarreling among them...
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It looks like there are some people who are lukewarm about supporting the Queen... That's good.
King Henry is forgetting things. That's very bad, especially since it might give Margaret more authority. At least he realizes that alienating York was a bad idea - too late for it to matter, of course, but the thought is nice.
King Henry is forgetting things. That's very bad, especially since it might give Margaret more authority. At least he realizes that alienating York was a bad idea - too late for it to matter, of course, but the thought is nice.
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I will take that as a compliment.
Indeed. Quite the reason I named the chapter as I did. Regardless of his own troubles at ruling, Henry is not now nor has he ever really been given good counsel. Many of the above Lords make some good points, but they cannot agree and Henry has trouble making decisions. More, they look to their own self interest as much as they do anything for the King (except maybe Buckingham.)
Key look at the scene as I am starting to show others that might be willing to go against the Queen.
I am pleased that you noticed that aside. I did want to show that Richard is in Henry's thoughts and not entirely in a poor way. I think he is more hurt than upset. Like a friend that has deserted you and you don't really know why.
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I must admit I initially assumed that it had never happened and it was just Margaret and her clique faking orders in the King's name, then bullying a confused man into thinking he had 'forgotten' something that had never happened.
That aside I very much enjoyed Norfolk in that scene, amongst the toadies and tragic figures he at least is enjoying himself. I hope he somehow manages a slightly longer life than he did historically, if nothing else he does enliven proceedings.
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I agree, the King getting even more indecisive, vague and forgetful is bad. And it’s not like he’s starting from a high point either. Sounds like another pressure-driven episode coming on.
French absolutism stalking the English council chamber? Gadzooks!
Nicely said, yer worship!
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More fb-fb:
That's a way of saying that Henry is in a similar position in terms of his emotions and what he thinks about everything that is happening. In some ways, his indecision may be making him a little nuts.
Seems like most of the regulars have caught up so I'm going to post the next scene in just a bit. As preview I'll just say I think it is a scene many may have been hoping for perhaps as long as I have.
I will admit that I was very much inspired by a scene from the film Nixon when Halderman (James Woods) is talking about what is on the tapes and Nixon (Anthony Hopkins) doesn't remember going over it and Halderman is certain because he himself had briefed the President. Bishop Booth uses the exact same line.
That's a way of saying that Henry is in a similar position in terms of his emotions and what he thinks about everything that is happening. In some ways, his indecision may be making him a little nuts.
He's an interesting cat in that he did not take sides readily so I can use him as a bit of a wild card. Glad that is coming across. And he is fun to write for. I can promise, there is plenty more of him coming up.
Indeed it is.
I'll admit that line is possibly anachronistic, but it does sound like something this Chancellor might say (at least to me.)French absolutism stalking the English council chamber? Gadzooks!
Archbishop Bourchier has became another interesting character to write or. And he's been around a long time in the story. I admit that I did not yet realize who he would become when I was writing for him as the Bishop of Ely. He's more a man in Buckingham's camp but I think he is starting to see the same troubles that Richard has talked about for a log time. And he doesn't like Booth because he sees him as just an upjumped Bishop promoted by the Queen.
Seems like most of the regulars have caught up so I'm going to post the next scene in just a bit. As preview I'll just say I think it is a scene many may have been hoping for perhaps as long as I have.
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Waterford, Ireland, March 1460
The Duke of York sat by the fire and heard what his nephew was telling him. He was silent throughout rarely looking up and then finally grumbled under his breath. The others to the small hall waited with anticipation until Richard stood and grasped the mantle, “I believe we push this three month treaty with Burgundy rather close. And they have not moved against Somerset in any ways.”
“Charles did promise that they would not,” the Earl of Warwick reminded, “He was quite clear that he would treat all Englishmen the same.”
“Yet he is still free with his ships,” York held his gaze to the flames.
Warwick allowed a slight grin, “I would not say that they were free, but he does not wish them back at the now.”
“Clearly because you were able to get here,” Edmund suggested with a smile, “That must have been quite a journey trying to avoid the King’s fleet!”
“There is no King’s fleet,” Richard answered shortly and remained in thought.
“Indeed,” Warwick looked to his young cousin, “There is a suggestion of a fleet, yet who may know who rules it? It won’t be Rivers, I may assure you. Perhaps your brother in law Exeter?”
“Hmm,” Edmund thought, “I never liked him anyway. I know not how Anne tolerates him.”
Richard suddenly turned and found his chair. He sat with a thud and looked Warwick squarely in the eye, “The three month truce was entirely correct, sir. Yet we take too long to get together here. I grow impatient in Ireland when there is so much to be done.”
“The whisper campaign goes forth, my Lord,” Warwick assured, “I am told it spreads quite well within Kent as we should think and so too in London. There remain those to Wales who would support you upon your landing. Everything has already been set, sir, for a glorious return.”
York sat back with a firm eye, “Everything but the method of it and our true goal.”
“I think the method for it quite clear, my Lord,” Warwick smiled, “Surely I will land in Sandwich and grow out from there. You, uncle, should go north. They will expect you to Wales and despite Northumberland in the north, the Queen will surely rally to face my force and protect London.”
York skewed a brow, “How do we know how much support we may find in the north with all of her recruitment there and to the midlands? What word have we had from the Stanleys? Surely Sir William was attained with the rest of us.”
“Little word, my Lord?” Warwick shrugged, “Yet I be certain that Sir William did us much as my brother George and said all the right things to save their heads. When the time comes, I think them to be true.”
York stood again and leaned to the mantle, “That is a question and not an answer. Facts not in evidence, sir. If we are to do this, we must do right at every step. We may not have any uncertainties.”
“There is always a fog to war, my Lord,” Warwick suggested.
Richard held his gaze to the flames, “I like not blinders. Not anymore. This be far too serious to blunder and there will be chance at every step. I do agree with you...your place is to Kent. You and your father will land at Sandwich and then send quick word of the success. I shall have to wait and see if it is done and well. Once we know which way she will turn, then I will decide if it be north or Wales to land. We will be ready no matter.”
Warwick smiled, “Either works for me, my Lord. I agree. We tarry too long without action. We must keep her at question and then answer her when she knows not what to do.”
“How do you do against Somerset?” York turned with interest.
“He is matched, sir,” the Earl grinned, “I think now married to my own men. Both of Audley and Stafford have turned on him and now fight for us. With it all, his many attempts have come to naught. I am little worried.”
Edmund was curious, “Is he a good fighter?”
“Sir?” Warwick looked to his cousin.
“Harry...how does he in the field?” Edmund pressed.
“Enough of him!” York changed the subject, “What of Edward? How does he do to your place? And why did he not join you on the journey?”
Warwick winced in reply, “He did not wish to, my Lord. Yet I must say that he does well to Calais. And seems to know your mind well.”
“What mean you?” the Duke questioned, “He holds more disturbances from my raising of him? More calumny falls from his mouth?”
“Nay, sir,” Warwick held up his hands, “He looks to your betterment in every way. Knows well what it is that you desire from all of this.”
York scoffed, “And what is that?”
“That you...” Warwick teased the answer, “...should be King.”
The Duke was silent in reply and looked back to the fire while Edmund offered great question, “My father wishes only a peaceful and good counsel to the King, sir! Has always said so and says so now!”
“Please...” Richard answered quietly as he looked to the flames, “...be silent, Ed.”
His son was taken aback but Warwick held a keen gaze, “You do not deny it, my Lord.”
“This is what my son thinks?” the Duke did not turn.
“I believe it so,” Warwick replied, “He has not said so in full but I think to read his mind on the matter. At the moment, we are to remove the Queen. That is what is agreed upon to Calais. My father cannot believe any other. Nor my uncle. Yet you know as much as I that removing her means that we must remove the King. There is no other way to achieve it.”
Richard held silent while his son questioned, “Can this truly be what we discuss? This is no less than usurpation!”
“It has been done before,” Warwick held his eyes to the Duke.
Richard merely mumbled under his breath, “Hm!”
“Papa?” Edmund then questioned his father, “Is this truly your own goal?”
“Allow me to think, my son,” York remained pensive by the fire. He slapped the mantle with his hand and then shifted to pour a goblet. Holding the cup before him, he finally answered, “I have not asked for this. I need not this sweet wine for who knows if it is truly poor? The proof of this is in the drinking...and I do not enjoy uncertainty. I must not anymore.”
As he stood there looking to the goblet, Warwick encouraged, “Then drink it, my Lord. Accept that you are the only man that may save us. Take your birth right and rid us of this malodorous administration and rule. King Henry is a kind man and deserves to spend his days among the monks and not to Westminster. The Queen is a whore. And we, the lot of us, are her pay. And frankly, I am left unsatisfied in the after. She must go, my Lord! There is no...other...way!”
Richard sighed and looked to his son. Edmund remained with question and the Duke finally answered to him, “Great times require great men, sir. And ours is only made for this. I like it not but hold little other choice. If the King is not to rule then there can be only one other and it will not be her.”
“Never her!” Warwick forcefully agreed.
York continued, “I have only ever wished for reliable and true counsel to the King and yet in all my trials, another always comes along. Be it the Cardinal, Suffolk or Somerset...there will always be another. We may not continue as we are. There is only one remedy and that is us.”
“Is this what Ned thinks?” Edmund looked to his cousin.
Warwick held his eyes to the Duke, “I think I may speak for him, my Lord...yes.”
“We must get there first,” York rounded a chair and stepped back to the fire with drink in hand, “The aim is true but we must find purchase and work from there. Speak of this to no one else. When the time is right, I will...I will do.”
Warwick stood, “I believe you will be readily accepted, my Lord. No one wishes this time but those that profit from it.”
“I say to you, nephew...” Richard looked to him with an earnest eye, “...I have thought long and hard on this. It will be no easy task for it is no easy ask. Though I hold the pedigree, I am not well liked and am resented for my place and not theirs. We must gain as much alliance as we are able if we are to push this through. And we must use every advantage.”
“They exist ten fold, sir,” Warwick suggested, “She will not be missed for no one loves her.”
Richard showed a cool eye, “Yet they love him.”
“They will...appreciate...a more energetic sovereign with plenty of good and honest heirs to follow, my Lord,” Warwick pointed to young Edmund, “A true time of peace to come and, if I may suggest...a promise for the future.”
The Duke swirled his goblet and thought before giving reply, “Take Edward with you when you go to Kent. He should not be left to Calais and...temptation.”
“I am certain that he will be proud to do so, my Lord.”
Richard gave nod and finally drank his cup.
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