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'You picked a most inclement day for your journey' Canon Peter ushered him into the hall 'The carriers say the road to the west is ih the woods,' John said 'It proved more hazardous than I anticipated If it had not been for the quick thinking of one of ht not be here now'

'Whatever happened?'

'We encountered some Welsh archers I'm sure they intended to rob us My ne and could put in a good word for theeant made his rounds'

'Did they leave you alone?'

'They volunteered their services as guides At a price, I ht add'

'And you accepted?'

'It seemed unwise to refuse'

'I can fully understand that,' Canon Peter nodded gravely 'It doesn't do to argue with these fellows They'll slit your throat at the slightest provocation'

They stopped at one of the tables John had a feeling theto raise the delicate matter of the poached venison To his relief, another matter was on his mind

'Before you left Sherborne you would have heard the result of the election?'

'The vicar announced it in All Hallows,' John said

Canon Peter nodded gravely 'We received a brief report when the pigeons arrived We are yet to receive formal advice from the prior'

'I understand that Canon Bradford dictated a letter for the prior's signature,' John said 'I assume it has been delayed by the weather'