Page:Cup of Gold-1929.djvu/42

“You spoke with Merlin? What did he say to you?” asked Robert from the hearth.

Henry's mind flashed quickly to Elizabeth. “He talked of things that are not in my belief,” he said.

“Well—it was only a chance,” murmured Robert. “You've hurt your mother badly, boy,” he went on. “I've never seen her so—so quiet.” Then Robert straightened himself and his voice became firm.

“I have five pounds for you, son. It's little enough; I suppose I might give you a small matter more, but not enough to help much. And here is a letter recommending you to my brother, Sir Edward. He went out before the king was murdered, and for some reason—perhaps because he was quiet—old Cromwell has let him stay. If he is there when you come to Jamaica, you may present this letter; but it's a cold, strange man who takes great pride in his rich acquaintance and might be a little annoyed with a poor relative. And so I do not know that good will come of this letter. He would dislike you unless you were able to see nothing funny in a man who looks like me, only strides about with a silver sword and plumes on his head. I laughed once, and he has not been a near brother to me since. But keep the letter; it may help you with other people if not with your uncle.”

He looked at his wife sitting huddled in the shadow. “Will we not have supper, Mother?”

She made no sign that she heard him, and Robert himself poured the pot and brought the food to the table.