Thomas nodded. “It is,” he said.
John Flarety nodded once, hard and sharp. “It is, your Honour.”
“Good.” Magistrate Cauwood rose from his place. The smith’s family were the only ones still sitting, and they came at once to their feet as the man made his slow way down from the platform. When he reached the ground, he turned to Thomas. “As for the other matter—“
“I am innocent, your—”
The magistrate raised a hand and Thomas fell immediately silent. “Be that as it may, you must still answer the charges made. Do not leave this room until the Reeve has arrived, or I will have you declared a fugitive. Do you understand?”
“Yes, your Honour.”
“Good. This court is adjourned for now.”
They all watched Magistrate Cauwood make his slow way across the tower and out the door. As soon as he was go
