In Kings' Byways

I learned in that moment how swiftly even those who rise to the highest levels of Court may fall.

"What does he plead?" the Bishop said, with a dark glance at me.

The head-clerk twisted my ear until I screamed. "Do you hear his Grace speak to you? Answer him!"

"My lord," I cried piteously, "I do not know of what I am accused. And besides, I have done nothing! Nothing!"

"Nothing!" half a dozen echoed.

"Have him to the courtyard," said the Bishop, "and let the grooms flog him through the gates!"