From an early age, Godwin taught Odo to be responsible for his actions, avoid passing blame, admit wrongdoing, and face any outcome with honour.
His cows had trampled crops and caused damage, and that was his responsibility. No proof could be offered at this moment to show that someone deliberately destroyed his fence and herded the animals into the fields. It was unlikely anyone would step forward in his defence and support his claim. If they did, it would be a matter of whose word the lord believed. Not for one moment did Odo think Lord Mellester had any sympathy for him - the outcome was assured to be harrowing. Determined to honour his father's memory, he lifted his head, squared his shoulders and waited.
"Herdsman Odo Read, come forward!" yelled Steward Alard.
A murmur rose aroun
