to the curious eyes upon me I took a long swig of the ale. Some of the ladies caught their breath in surprise. I chuckled realizing it was my robe that made them think I was a monk. Little did they know and how much they assumed by one's attire.

I caught Valenta's eye as she served a stocky looking Welshman who had entered the Inn behind me. I motioned for another pint. While I waited I sopped my bread in the stew she had brought me. When Valenta brought my pint I asked her who was the Welshman. She informed me he was Miss Lizabet Blatland's gardner, Cidwn Silures.

"Oh my dear girl, I believe he is much more than some Lady's gardner."

"Yes Father. I have gotten that impression as well." she smiled.

"Why don't you take the man a pint on me, luv." She started to turn away. "Oh and before I forget it..we will probably be having a guest at the house soon."

"A guest, Father! When? Whom? Does Mother know?"

"My Gods girl take a breath!" I laughed. "Yes she knows. The rest will have to wait until his arrival."