‘I was, though I was at pains to disguise it.’ A slight smile appeared. ‘We were doing business after all, and no man wants to seem weak when conducting that.’
‘Did you think I would exploit you?’
‘Nay, Captain. You are one of the very few Gentiles I know would not. Habits of a lifetime, eh?’ He shrugged, winced. ‘But this sickness can no longer be concealed. Especially since I may die of it. Or of its cure anyway.’
‘Do not say so.’ Coke reached to take the man’s hand again. He did not have many beyond acquaintances in London and though he did not know the Jew well, they had always been plain in their dealings and their mutual regard. He liked the man. ‘And tell me how I may help?’
Isaac glanced to the sword at Coke’s side. ‘How delicate are you with your blade, captain? Could you cut
