Ralph Watkins and his son Toby sat in the snook of the Wild Boar enjoying a well-earned pint of ale. The bar was almost full, as was usual at this time of day, with the local farm workers and labourers scattered around the tables, enjoying their pre-supper libation, and discussing their days work.
There was a large fire in the hearth and the heat which emanated from it filled the entire bar with its warming glow. The sound of logs crackling as the hungry flames licked against them, helped to drown out the mumbled conversations from the patrons scattered around the bar.
Toby glanced over at his father. He could tell from the dour expression on the old man’s face that his thoughts were troubled by something. What’s the matter pa?” he asked, concerned. “You look as if you’ve just lost yer l
