Chapter Thirteen
Sir de Beresford, Lord of Langley Manor, surveyed the hovel from the path. “It has a good roof, though it will need repairing before autumn.”
“Indeed it does my Lord,” said Marion.
De Beresford looked at her in apparent disapproval. He then faced John, presumably so there could be no confusion over who he addressed. “No one has tended the attached land or garden for a year. If you work hard you could get it ready for winter vegetables. Your priority of course is to work my land. I take for granted that your women will serve in my household.”
“Of course, my Lord,” said John, twisting his hood as he held it in front of him. “We are grateful for your kindness. You will suffer no loss through this generosity.”
“See that I don’t. Of course, your thanks should go to my wife
