King Egbert made it his business to intercept Asculf and Hywel when they strolled into the palace after attending Mass.
“The very men I wish to speak with,” said the king, “come to my library.” An avid collector of ancient books, the monarch often spent time in deep reflection among his tomes when not reading. The choice of meeting place suited his mood, which had been sombre for several days, while the company he had commanded to join him was not casual but well-pondered.
Lacking in comfort, the library offered only stools and benches as seats; the king gestured to them to sit.
“I have brought you here to heed my solemn deliberation. Pray, do not protest or otherwise interrupt as I have thought this through carefully.”
Asculf shot his companion a puzzled look, only to see it mirrored
