Chapter Five
And with a beck full low he bowed at her feet,
In humble wise, as who would say, 'I am too far unmeet.’
~Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey
June 7, 1536
“Disgusting fly!”
“Pardon me, my lady?” Edward asked, his eyes watching me curiously as I batted away a fly and a horde of gnats.
We sat on the king’s barge, surrounded by courtiers, and not even the gentle breeze flowing off the Thames could break the thickness of the humid air. With each waft of summer wind, I either caught the scent of fish, garbage, sweet honeysuckle or lavender flowers, baker’s bread, or smoke from cook fires along the shore. The menagerie of scents was overwhelming and turned my stomach, even with the meager contents of my light breakfast.
Today was unusually hot, and it seemed every bug in London had decided I would be a nice sweet to partake in. Even the lighter satin fabric of my gown did little to alleviate the heat. Would that I was a Grecian goddess who had men employed to fan away the heat—and only a thin swath of linen to wear.
“Nothing, my lord, just taking in the splendor that is the Thames on a summer morning.” Sarcasm seeped into my voice, and I had to check myself. Luckily, Edward was the only one paying attention or some gossiping courtier might have taken it to mean I did not want to be at this joyous occasion. Because of our status, we were allowed on the barge that held King Henry and Queen Jane, along with Norfolk, Surrey, Edward’s brother Tom, the Lady Mary, Suffolk and his wife, Catherine, and of course Henry’s gentlemen of the privy chamber and Jane’s ladies-in-waiting. All were dressed in their finest. Cloth of gold, satins in shimmery blues, silvers and greens. Jewels around their throats, and stacked on their fingers. An event at court was always the best time to show off your riches, wealth and status.
I looked down at my own fingers, bedecked with rubies, diamonds and sapphires. I supposed I was not any different. I turned to Edward, taking in his jeweled and feathered cap and diamond-studded doublet. Nor was he.
Edward smiled warily. Perhaps he was still conflicted about how to react around me after our argument from the previous evening. It was my fervent prayer that he would never flirt so openly and lecherously in my presence again. I did not know how much more of it I could take. He loved me well, our coming together was always passionate and pleasurable, but still I could not shake the thoughts of who else he was pleasuring. I bit my lip against whispering a plea for him to stay true to me. Eventually he would come back to me alone, as it had been right after we married. When court had forgotten of what a cuckold his father had made of him… But I wanted them to forget now. I wanted Edward for myself.
But it was not only Edward’s infidelity that had my nerves on edge… My encounter with Surrey had left me even more incensed than I would have been if I had only just observed Edward with the light skirt. But seeing as how he had left me to my own defenses with the one person on earth he knew had stolen my innocence, using me without regard for my person—I was all the angrier with him.
Until now we’d been drifting at a leisurely pace along the Thames, but suddenly the barge shifted forward with a surge of power, letting us know the procession was now in progress. I gripped the rail to steady myself and placed comfort in the strong and steady grip of Edward on my elbow. Edward and I took our places among the elite who were privileged to ride with King Henry and Queen Jane on their procession from Greenwich to Whitehall. This was Jane’s entering London in state, and for a girl who’d never been raised to take her place as a royal, Queen Jane stood up to her new title with all the stoicism a queen could gather. She waved with regal poise to the gathering crowds along the shores, her back straight, head held high. Her hair was impeccably curled and styled, her ivory silk and lace gown with gold embroidery, pearls and emeralds was in perfect order, and a delicate gold crown sat upon her head.
Several of the barges in front of us held musicians seated in neat little rows. I watched their mouths and fingers working.
“Jane, my wife, my love. Hear you the music?” King Henry asked.
Jane smiled and nodded. “’Tis beautiful.”
“Written just for you,” he answered in a low voice that was only heard by a few surrounding them, “by me.”
Jane gasped and tilted up on tiptoes to place a kiss on Henry’s lips. Many years had passed since the king had sought to compose his own music. He was an excellent weaver of notes and verse. Many of his compositions were played at court often. But what an honor for Jane, that he’d come back to music just for her.
I turned back to the barges holding those special players, the song a delight to the senses. Never before had I been privileged enough to see them play from such a vantage point. My position was usually upon the shore or at a window. But even still, I had never seen a procession quite as bold and magnificent.
Music filled the air with a sense of mysticism. I took a moment to look at the blue sky, a few clouds floating with an innocence that made me remember my days as a girl. How I wished to lie upon their fluffy softness. The music was joyous and filled the bubbling courtiers and court ladies with smiles. King Henry’s teeth shone white around a proud smile, and even England’s new queen had a modest curl to her lip.
The sounds of sackbuts, shawms and drumslades floated over the river. The mixture of woodwind instruments, booming drums and regal trumpets was astonishing. Even the instruments held new and powerful beauty. Upon the river they were clearer, ringing out in all their glory to the new queen.
Soon, the flies and gnats were forgotten, and I found myself swaying to the music and all it represented. Jane was queen. The Seymours had risen. We would prevail.
I squeezed Edward’s hand and was rewarded with his own flex of fingers. He was forgiven for the moment in my mind, and in that silent treaty, we once again forged an alliance with each other to spread our wealth, build our name, and grow our status within the realm.
As we passed the Tower of London, the beginning of a four-hundred-gun salute startled me, but soon my blood pumped in tune. Cannons answered the Tower’s call on barges with booming salutes of their own. What great pomp and squalor! And all for Jane! Magnificent, and yet, unassuming, Jane!
But a sudden thought squelched my joy for a moment. Did anyone remember that just a fortnight ago those same guns cracked in the air to signal the death of Anne Boleyn?
I took a moment to look around, my mouth suddenly dry. Courtiers smiled, waved, cheered. Merchants, nobles and peasants alike waved and ran up and down the shores, trying to catch a glimpse of us as we passed. Even some arms and heads dangled from the barred windows of the Tower.
The king was his charming self in that moment as well, loudly proclaiming his pleasure.
Then it struck me. The people mirrored the moods of the king. If he was in mourning—they mourned. If he was angry—they rallied for justice on his part. If he was filled with merriment—they laughed and danced. We were all little puppets, and the world, the king’s stage. We cheered today, but what would we do tomorrow? Or even tonight?
“Are you not well?” Edward leaned down, his forehead touching mine for less than a second.
I sighed at the irony. “I was only recalling the last time we heard the loud booms of cannons.”
Edward hissed a breath. “Do not even think it.”
I only nodded, washing my mind of thoughts of Anne Boleyn. Edward was right. I could not even think it. “My mother and Sir Richard shall come to court soon.” The excitement was noticeably absent from my voice.
Edward inclined his head. “I have heard he shall be made High Sheriff of Surrey.”
“Mmm hmm.”
“How very fortunate they have returned to favor with the king, being your kin. This is good news, is it not?”
“’Tis indeed good for them.”
“But not for you?” Edward leaned a little closer to make our conversation more private despite the loud goings-on of the procession, which would hardly let anyone overhear us.
“Sheriff of Surrey, Edward. Do you not understand?”
“Ah.” Edward stroked my arm reassuringly. “But Sir Richard shall answer to the king and not Henry Howard.”
I wanted to ask why he’d not rescued me from the loathsome Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey, the night before, but I held my tongue, not wanting to start another fight, especially on this monumental occasion.
“’Tis a fact, but they shall still have contact with me, more than enough contact. I worry overmuch for my family.”
“And for yourself?”
“Yes.” I chose to confess Henry Howard’s threats from the night before. “Surrey says he wants to see me fall. ’Tis a perfect opportunity to try to bring me to heel.”
“But you forget one thing, love.”
“What is that?”
“You are married to me. I shall see that no harm comes to you.”
I nodded, fearing that the only response I could give would be to ask where he was the night before when I needed him. I gazed up at the Tower as we passed. Great streamers and banners hung from its walls depicting the king’s and queen’s initials, their arms, and Jane’s motto, the phoenix rising, a representation of renewal through Jane’s own self-sacrifice. She promised to renew the Tudor dynasty, to have it hold steadfast through the birth of a prince. A grave and somber day it would be if Jane could not uphold her promise. So many promises uttered from lips, but how could one really have guaranteed their validity? Even Edward’s promises to keep us safe from the Howards… Edward was smart, formidable even, but the Howards were strong, too, maybe stronger. I crossed myself quickly and said a prayer.
Sweet child of God, Jesus, bring us a prince. Keep us safe!
Our barge slowed its pace and gently rocked back and forth. I tightened my arm on Edward’s to steady myself. I was not used to riding in the barge quite yet—this only my second time. My legs were made for walking or riding a horse. The rocking, no matter how benign, still seemed to throw my balance off.
Jane turned around and caught my eye. I was taken aback by the joyful sparkle in her gaze. Why did it feel like ages since I had seen her so truly pleased?
We passed beneath London Bridge. White and yellow posy petals floated through the air, landing in Jane’s hair like snowflakes in the winter. Children and women stood atop the bridge, tossing flowers and wreaths down on us.
The king plucked a few petals from Jane’s hair. “She loves me, she loves me not. She loves me, she loves me not. She loves me!”
The people cheered in reaction, and Henry grasped Jane to him for a kiss. This only caused further shouts from the people, and even we courtiers joined in.
When finally he let her go, Jane waved while Henry tossed gold coins to the people, some of the gold falling recklessly and forever into the water, the ripples in its murky depths the only proof they were once there.
After High Mass, we returned to Whitehall, where a hunt had been arranged, followed by a picnic, dancing, and tonight there would be fireworks. The heat started to get to me, though, and when we disembarked from the barge, I declined to attend the afternoon festivities and retired to my room. I was sweating, lightheaded and touched by a bit of nausea. I swayed on my feet. I would not have been able to stand much longer—even on solid ground.
I did not know whether it was the infernal heat and my wretched gown or the rocking of the barge that had done me in. Either way, I barreled into my room and slammed the door shut, beckoning Jenny to me.
“Help me, girl.” I tore at my gown, my movements rushed, frantic, only seeking the relief of being free from it. Jenny’s fingers flew over the ties of my gown and corset, stripping me down to my chemise.
“My lady, this might help.” My maid handed me a great fan with an ivory handle.
I greedily snatched it from her fingers and fanned myself, waving for her to hand me the mug in her hand as well. I tipped the mug to my lips, the pleasure of cool liquid against my tongue enough to elicit an appreciative moan. Liquid dribbled over my chin onto my chest, but I did not care. I drank the entirety with great gulps, until finally I felt somewhat myself.
Jenny rushed to open the shutters at my window. But even with the window thrown open, the air was still stifling. It was only mid-June, and already the heat was so unbearable.
I flopped onto the bed and continued to fan myself, wishing I could stay in my room the rest of the evening.
“Anne, are you feeling better?”
What little reprieve I’d had was over. Alas, Edward had come to fetch me. My solitude at an end, I curled my lip with disappointment.
“As best I can be with this infernal heat.”
Edward chuckled. “Perhaps we ought to make a progress north, where it is a little cooler?”
I sat up, excited with the idea, especially knowing that soon it would be even hotter. “I would enjoy that immensely.”
He nodded. “For now, as the new reigning family in court, we must show our faces, thwart rumors, uncover any plots.”
“Impeccable judgment, my lord.”
I tossed my feet over the side of the bed and stood, sauntering toward Edward. His heated gaze raked over my frame, almost as if until now, he had no idea I was in only my thin-as-air chemise. I hungrily soaked up his admiration. His ardor reinforced my conclusion regarding his adultery—he was seeking to replace his manhood. But it was my place as his wife to make him feel that way, was it not? I could make him feel like more of a man in more ways than one. I could bed him well, and I could keep him informed of court secrets, help him gain more power.
Edward reached out and with one finger, trailed a path from my collarbone to the ribbons tying my chemise in place over my breasts. With one gentle tug he could have the fabric gaping open and my breasts exposed for his viewing. He fingered the silky ties for a moment before turning away. “You could tempt an angel, Anne.”
“Want to be my angel?” I teased.
He laughed and turned back, pulling me in for a kiss. I melted against him, living fully in this moment of abandon, a moment where conspiracies, risks, and ascension were not in the forefront of our minds. Only the two of us, our bodies, our desires. But it ended all too quickly.
“Dress for now. Later, we will... abide our baser appetites?”
I nodded, my lips still tingling and my mind not ready to take on the machinations of court.
By the time I was ready for Edward to escort me to the great feast Henry had planned in Jane’s honor, my undergarments were already soaked through with sweat. The sun had yet to set, and my only hope was that once the dark of night fell, a cool breeze would waft in from the windows to ease my suffering.
We walked together down the corridor of our joint chambers, through the many winding passageways, down spiral staircases, until we reached the great hall already swelling with courtiers. The scents of bread, succulent meats and sweets reached my nose. Music pulsed in the air. Hands were clapping, mouths were singing, cheering.
King Henry’s court in celebration was one to be rivaled. Never would a courtier say they were not entertained when imbibing on the king’s good hospitality and talent for merrymaking.
Again the image of puppets came to mind. I prayed the king was still in such a convivial mood on the morrow.
And I prayed that I could keep Edward satisfied and in my bed tonight.
June 8, 1536
Edward had been sent on an errand by the king. He would be gone nearly a fortnight, and in the meantime I was responsible for retaining the Seymour status at court. Luckily for us, Edward now had the power to appoint his allies in key posts within the royal household, even as lowly as a mere groom. Our own spies were everywhere, keeping us well informed as to the goings-on with both courtiers and the royal couple.
I finished writing a few letters of correspondence, sealed them in wax, stamped them with my crest and was handing them to a waiting groom when Jenny rushed in. “My lady, Sir Anthony Browne has come to address you.”
Anthony? My lips thinned, and I drummed my fingertips on the desk. We hadn’t spoken directly since that evening exactly the week before.
“Send him in please.” I rubbed my hands against the length of my gown, half to smooth the wrinkles out and half to wipe the nervous sweat from my palms.
I stood by the hearth as he came in, sweeping a low bow to me in such a way that I was able to peruse his form with female appreciation. Such broad shoulders, a narrow waist and long, lithe legs. A little flutter of butterflies danced in my belly. I squared my shoulders and prepared to fend off any and all physical reactions to the handsome, charming man of the privy chamber.
“I trust your morning is going well, Sir Anthony? What news do you bring?”
He stood, his eyes flashing with humor. “My lady, might I come only to inquire on your health and happiness?”
“You might, but both you and I know there must be some other reason for ambling down the hall from His Majesty’s chambers and to my own. Especially when you are aware my lord husband is away.”
He chuckled at that, turned to a footman. “Some wine.”
The footman rushed to fill two goblets and handed them to us each. I nodded to the servants, who quickly left the room, the door closing quietly behind them. Sir Anthony sat in a high-backed chair, the cushion I had embroidered myself of a wolf howling at the moon.
“You are a very astute woman. A formidable woman.”
I smiled and took a sip of my wine, letting it mull on my tongue a moment before swallowing. I did not see myself as thus. I was merely a woman who had opinions, an education and a mind to use it for my own good. “Formidable? Am I really so terrifying?” I perfected a coquettish turn of my head and slight curtsy, my hips moving gently, arms delicately at my sides. The move had the desired effect, and Anthony smiled, laughed and patted his knee.
“Come sit, right here.”
If I had drunk several casks of wine, I might have indulged him, but instead I took the seat opposite him, as was proper, and set down my wine on the table beside me, afraid he’d see how it shook in my hands. As much as the man would persuade me to form a more intimate companionship with him, I would hold my ground in my refusal. Edward was my priority, and as I had promised him, I would not do anything to jeopardize that. Despite how many wells he’d dipped his wick into.
“Suit yourself, my lady. My lap will be barren without you.”
I waved away his flirtations and narrowed my eyes, now truly curious about his visit, and trying to subdue my heightened interest in the man’s appealing lap. What draw did this man hold for me? I couldn’t figure it out to be anything other than him pursuing me, desiring me, and me being able to push him away or pull him closer.
“To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?”
“Ah, I see, no idle chitchat with Lady Beauchamp. Very well, I have come to inform you that a new Act of Succession has been passed in parliament. It states that when King Henry passes on to heaven,” at this, he crossed himself, as did I, “the crown will be passed on to Queen Jane’s children, a right noble, virtuous and excellent lady.”
Keeping my face void of emotion, I said, “I am aware of this already, sir, as it was passed several days ago.”
“Yes, but the part which continues to decree his previous daughters, the Ladies Mary and Elizabeth, as illegitimate and without rights to the throne is what I thought might interest you.”
“How would that interest me?”
“Are you not a supporter of Mary?” He leaned forward, his fingers gently caressing my hands, which lay folded in my lap. I bit the inside of my cheek to keep from sighing at the pleasant sensation that made my skin tingle and pushed his hands away.
I dare not tell this man that Mary and I had been close friends as children—even though she was six years my junior. My caring for her was personal and nothing more, and I’d never let it influence the Seymour goals in any direction. Jane’s children would always come before any of King Henry’s other offspring.
“I have been a friend of Mary’s for some time. I served her mother.”
“And?”
“And that does not mean I wish her to come before the children of our own current, right and true queen.” For I had to always support Jane and the Seymours if I was to see myself rise in position. I could very well be a duchess one day. “What is the meaning of this, sir?”
The conversation was bordering on treasonous, and I was not interested in taking part.
“My lady, please, no need to get your pluck up. I am your friend, your most humble servant.” He got down on his knees before me, sucking the breath from my lungs. What in all of London was he doing? He pressed his lips to my hands, my knees, his hands gripping mine.
“My lord!” I hissed, trying to pull my hands from his, clamping my knees firmly together. I searched frantically around the room, feeling relief and disappointment that there was not another soul in the room. If there had been, he would have ceased this foolishness!
“Do not deny me, Anne.” More kisses were pressed to my fingertips. “I am but here to make a pact with you.”
He stood abruptly, as if his own passion had startled even himself. I was stunned speechless. Never had a man, not even Edward, groveled at my feet. Anthony began to pace. ’Twas a completely new experience, one that was frightening yet liberating at the same time. As much as I was tempted, I could never indulge him, but all the same it was a flattering concept. Was it possible that this man, Anthony, held more than a passing fancy for me? Or was it simply my body he wished to conquer? I narrowed my eyes, suddenly suspicious that perhaps he had a bone to pick with Edward and sought to gain his revenge by taking me to bed.
I opened my mouth to say just that, but he interrupted me.
“The whole of court, London and England, might be fooled, but you have not let your ruse go by on me!”
“What?” I whispered, shocked and confused.
“Edward is at once owned by one and all. He is friend to everyone, enemy of no one, and each body and soul believes he is on their side. I know you are the one who leads the strings. You are the one who makes the decisions. I’ve seen him look at you for approval before acting, and I know how much Queen Jane seeks your council.”
“Sir Anthony, if you will, relay your purpose.” I pinched my lips closed tightly, disgusted with his antics. To try to fool me into thinking he had feelings… the cad!
“See!” He thrust his finger out, pointing at me, a broad smile on his lips. “Lady Anne is the one behind the wheel, captain of the ship and most forthright.” He stopped abruptly in front of me. “I want to be first mate. To walk beside you.”
“You cannot, Sir Anthony. We cannot. ’Tis not appropriate given I am married.” My heart constricted in my chest, and I could not help but gaze at his alluring, yet completely forbidden, mouth. I almost snorted with self-disgust.
“Then let me be the sails, let me propel you forward, let me whisper to you of the wind.”
“Enough with poetical innuendos. Out with it! Are you proposing to be my eyes and ears?”
A small dimple appeared in the crest of his cheek as his smile broadened. “At last, the lady has seen the light.”
“Why?”
“We all have a part to play and wishes to see granted. I do believe we want the same things. What better way than to work together to ensure the future of the realm? Of ourselves?”
“I do not think we want the same things at all, Sir Anthony.” I glanced toward his lap where he’d begged me to sit not long ago, a shadow of doubt regarding my statement creeping into my mind.
“’Haps that is the case, but I do know we both want the Seymour faction to persevere, and that we are both enemies of the Howards.”
I eyed Anthony critically. Perhaps this friendship had merit. I desperately wanted Edward to gain power—be elevated from viscount to duke. Mayhap any information I gained from Anthony would help. Then Edward would be true to me, and only me. He would see how I had elevated him, loved him, been loyal to him alone. I was a hundred times the woman Catherine Filiol was. But the question remained: What did Sir Anthony desire? “How can I trust you, sir? Perhaps you seek my friendship only to taunt my husband?”
Anthony laughed at this. “Taunt Lord Beauchamp? Never, my lady. You may hold the strings when you are with him, but the man is formidable in his own right as well.”
“What do you seek to gain in return?”
“A title, holdings.”
I nodded. He wanted what everyone desired. “And trust?”
He held out his hands, imploringly. “How can I prove my loyalty?”
“You mentioned friends at court.”
“Ah, that I did.” His wicked grin returned.
My nipples tightened, and I stood abruptly and walked to the window to hide the reaction of my body to his smile. I felt him before I even heard him, the heat of his body behind mine as he came up to the window. He was too close. I would have done better to stay in my seat.
I turned, only to find him inches away.
“Set up a meeting, Sir Anthony.” I ducked away from him and went again to the hearth. I could not seem to get far enough from the man, and from the growing attraction taking over my being.
“You seem out of breath, my lady? Are you not well?” But the devilish twinkle in his eyes told me he knew exactly why I was having trouble breathing. Rogue.
“’Tis the infernal heat.” I rushed to pick up my fan Jenny had left on a side table for me, and then I sat back down, still too stunned by how Anthony’s presence provoked me, made me insane. ’Haps it was that Edward and I were not getting on so well, and Anthony was offering me attention. Regardless his plans for an alliance, real desire emanated in his eyes and despite how it went against my morals—I liked it.
Anthony narrowed his gaze, watching me for what seemed like an hour, when only seconds passed. He came closer, knelt before me again and laid his head in my lap. Unable to stop myself, I reached out and stroked his hair before I realized what I had done. It was thick and soft and soothing. I gasped and yanked my hand away.
“Sir Anthony, please. You must remove yourself from my person.” I was completely undone. Edward was the only other man to illicit a response from me.
The only other man to touch me had been Surrey. I’d given those little sparks a chance to burst. Wondered at his flirtations and taken a leap. And he’d wickedly taken advantage of my na?veté, however many years older I was than he. Flirting with me outrageously and leading me on until the moment he’d taken it too far. Men were not to be trusted. I had avoided all intimate contact with men up until the present, keeping my distance, remaining impartial, aloof, never giving all of myself. How could I after watching my beloved Katharine of Aragon sob every time her husband took a lover, and then when she died of heartache when he set her aside. Why was it, that now, with Anthony, things were changing? I pushed at him to get off of me. Why was my body, my mind, betraying me?
“My apologies, my lady.” He lifted his head, and for a moment I could no longer breathe. He looked as if he might kiss me. But I turned away and placed the fan between our lips, flicking it furiously. He stayed on his knees.
“A secret for you, my lady.”
I waited with bated breath.
“If Jane does not have a son, King Henry will see to it that his bastard son, the Duke of Richmond, succeeds to the throne. He has already drawn the papers up, and bribes have been accrued to sway parliament in his direction.”
My eyes widened. “Thank you.” I did not share my opinion on his words, but merely gave him my appreciation for such news. When Edward returned, there was much work to be done to make certain that Henry’s bastard by Elizabeth Blount, did not make it to the throne. Jane must bear us a prince!
“Will two days work for you?” His gaze caught mine, eyes heavily lidded, his lips partially opened I wanted to run my fingers over them, see if they felt as soft as they looked.
“Two days?”
“The king and queen are hosting a garden party. I will see to it that you are introduced to several connections at court that will be beneficial to you and our cause.”
“Cause?” I hated asking questions like this, like some sort of dull-witted lump, but I had been so distracted I lost track of our conversation. This man was dangerous for me. I prided myself on my quick wits.
“The Lady Mary—if, for some reason,” Anthony paused and crossed himself, “Jane doesn’t bear a son, shouldn’t Lady Mary be next in line and not the bastard?”
I narrowed my gaze. “I did make myself clear that I will not be party to any machinations that endanger Queen Jane, did I not?”
“With respect, my lady, we also want only what is best for Queen Jane and her issue. We also seek to see the Lady Mary restored to her rightful position at court.”
I nodded. “And what of the Duke of Richmond? Where do these friends of yours stand with him?”
“They are in agreement with myself, that only those legitimate heirs should have rights to the throne—Lady Mary and Jane’s children.”
“What of Princess Elizabeth?” Anne Boleyn’s child was also a legitimate child once.
“She is not our concern. The girl will most likely take after her mother’s rash and radical behavior and beliefs. What good could come of having her on the throne?”
I nodded. Anne Boleyn had changed the face of a country, and ravaged everyone in her path—though not always her fault. Nevertheless, having her child on the throne sent fear barreling through my blood, for wouldn’t she seek vengeance on those who’d been disloyal to her murdered mother?
I stood, dismissing Sir Anthony. “Two days then.”
He raised to his full height, bowed to me and grasped my hand. His lips brushed my knuckles, and he whispered, “Nothing brings me greater pleasure than doing as you command.”
“I do not care who she’s meeting with…” came the voice of Edward’s brother Thomas beyond the door, and then he burst through.
My hand was still held in Anthony’s, fingers nearly touching his lips. We instantly looked guilty, as Thomas’ eyes went from me to Anthony. Thomas’ brows furrowed, and a spark of anger filled his dark gaze. My cheeks flamed, and I forced my eyes, which had been wide, to close slightly.
“Sir Anthony. What are you doing here?” His voice was cold and hard, not at all curious about the visit, but accusing.
“He came to see Edward about a matter of state,” I interjected.
My brother-by-marriage’s chest was puffed out, and he grunted. I willed the heat away from my face. Edward’s first wife had ruined any chances I might ever have of being thought of as innocent. I could see Thomas had already judged me and found me guilty.
“Edward is not here, Sir Anthony. You should well know that.”
Anthony was quick to recover, dropping my hand and standing again at full height. He stepped forward, an easy smile on his face. “I know it well, Sir Thomas. ’Tis simply that I needed to know where to send my missive, and I figured Lady Beauchamp would be the quickest way to gain access to it.”
“You could have asked me.”
“Indeed, I searched for you but could not find you. Where were you?”
Thomas clamped his jaw tight, and a vein popped out in his neck. “None of your affair.”
Where had my brother-by-marriage been? Now I was judging someone who looked more guilty than innocent.
“My apologies, sir,” Anthony said with a bow.
“Never mind.” He gave Anthony one last glare before turning suspicious eyes on me. “Anne, I came to see if you might need escort to the queen’s chambers for the evening meal?”
“Yes, thank you.”
We all exited my chambers in silence. I was relieved for the moment to have disaster averted and thanked God in heaven that Thomas hadn’t barged in while Anthony’s head had been on my lap.
Sir Anthony might have been helping me inadvertently to regain my husband’s full attention, but he was a danger. A liability. One I was not certain I could trust altogether, and now I would have Thomas’ eyes on me, too.
June 10, 1536
The gods had blessed us. Somehow they’d provided for a beautiful summer day, without the sweltering heat. Even a light breeze blew. Fountains churned and flowed water into the gorgeous ponds dotted with swans and lily pads. The crunch of gravel under feet on the various walkways served as a background hum to the chatter of courtiers and ladies and lightly played strings of the musicians.
Garden parties at Hampton Court could only be rivaled by those at Versailles in France—or so Anne Boleyn had lamented about to her ladies in her presence chamber—but I would never say such a thing to King Henry, who already felt the competition flowing harshly between himself and King Francis.
A game of boules was being played on the green, the king himself in the lead. I watched as he bent a leg forward, another behind and then with the smooth black ball in his hand, he swung back and flung it forward, knocking several others out of the way. Those observing the game clapped at his superior skills, to which Henry bowed.
Next up was Sir Anthony Browne. I averted my eyes, our meeting from two days prior still fresh in my mind. We hadn’t spoken alone since that time. The sun was beginning to paint an orange and purple rainbow on the horizon. Nightfall would arrive soon, and I had yet to be introduced to anyone like he’d promised.
I turned at the rustle of skirts behind me. A maid I did not recognize stood, hands clutched together, the only outward sign she was nervous.
“My lady, come with me, please.”
“Pardon?” I frowned that a servant.
“I was sent to fetch you,” she said, eyes darting. “My lady said you would forget but to remind you of your arrangement to meet.”
Light dawned with her words. The promised connection. “Ah, yes. Lead the way.”
I followed as she led me quickly through a maze of shrubs so tall they towered easily two feet above me. When she stopped, I was confronted by a cloaked and shadowed figure. The sun found it hard to reach all the way inside the maze.
The maid curtsied, collected coins from the figure, and then disappeared.
I stood still, shoulders squared, waiting for the person to reveal her identity to me. Finally, after what seemed like several minutes, two pale, delicate hands slipped from the folds of the dark fabric and pulled back the hood, revealing a jeweled hood atop silky chestnut locks. The lady’s piercing emerald eyes took me in.
I gasped, my shock evident at seeing the Marchioness of Exeter. Standing before me was a powerful woman. One who’d had no qualms about remaining in contact with Queen Katharine after she was set aside. One who’d approached Chapuys about placing Lady Mary on the throne—even though she denied it and no proof was ever found.
“My lady,” I muttered, unable to say more. She had been banished from court and in hiding ever since. The king and his council suspected her of treason and had even ravaged her houses looking for incriminating correspondence. But to no avail.
“Lady Anne.” She walked forward, her gait slow and purposeful. A small smile curved her pink lips, and little wrinkles appeared at the sides of her eyes. “I’ve been told by a mutual friend you were looking for more… acquaintances.”
I blocked out the sudden sense of foreboding that rippled along my flesh. Joining forces with a woman suspected of treason could only end in a blade against my neck. I swallowed hard. There was still time for me to turn around and leave, pretend I hadn’t seen her. Yell for the guard to come and arrest her.
There was Edward, too. How would he feel about me linking our name to that of Exeter?
I took a step back for a moment, fully prepared to leave. But I thought better of it. I could use a woman like Lady Exeter to gain support from those who felt Mary should have been on the throne. Her supporters were vast, the majority of England, which upset the king most. But if they were on our side, on Edward’s side… then perhaps Edward could persuade the king to embrace his daughter once more. Bring the king once again in full command of his country, which was now so divided. Avoid civil war. In the end, protecting Jane.
A relationship with someone like the marchioness could lead to power—or my undoing. Without thought, I rubbed my wrist, feeling the strong heartbeat beneath my skin. It was dangerous, that was for certain. If things were to go wrong, that strong beat beneath my fingertips would cease.
Without risk, there is no gain.
“You’ll excuse my surprise, my lady, I was not aware that I would be gaining an acquaintance of your reputation,” I remarked, chin thrust forward.
Lady Exeter chuckled, deep and throaty, her little white teeth showing between her lips. “Lady Anne, you are one to speak on reputations. I am surprised we have not become friends before now.”
At this, I smiled. Lady Exeter was a smart and daring woman. I instantly liked her. “Fair enough.”
“Might I enlighten you on how we can find a relationship to be mutually beneficial?”
I took a moment before answering, wanting her to think I was truly at odds with how to respond—even though I had already decided to correspond with her. “If it pleases you.”
“Ever the female courtier, Lady Anne.” She walked a few feet to a white, marble bench and sat down, arranging her cape over the mossy-green brocade fabric of her skirts. “I am on very good terms with the Lady Mary and with Ambassador Chapuys.”
I nodded. “This I know.”
“Did you also know that I am close friends with the Duchess of Suffolk? That I dine frequently with the Countess of Salisbury?”
I pursed my lips, knowing that these women would certainly be able to provide me with the means to gain information regarding the Howards and the state of the political current. Lady Exeter could tell us who was plotting what, should I require it.
“The duchess and her husband invite me to dinner often. Suffolk himself is like a brother to the king. But, alas, while he shares information with the marquess and I, he is reluctant to sing our praises to the king.”
“I would not doubt it given their past volatile relationship,” I said. “The king has already banished him from court once for marrying his sister, imagine what he’d do for consorting with the king’s enemies?”
“He seems to think we only need bide our time before he can whisper our names before the king.”
“And Lady Salisbury? Your relationship with her alone is dangerous. Her son Reginald Pole has sided with the pope, openly berating King Henry’s break with Rome—and laying his own claim to the throne. He is being sought after for offenses against the king as we speak.” I swallowed hard. Never would the king know my own true Catholic heart.
The marchioness chuckled again. “But do not you see? Lady Salisbury and her eldest son, Lord Montague, would do anything to prove to our king that they have no ties to Reginald Pole. They would not see their own heads on pikes gracing London Bridge.”
I narrowed my gaze and took a step forward. “And what exactly are you saying?”
“They will give Reginald up… They will tell where he hides in return for favor within court—favor you can restore to them. They’ll give him up for their very lives. But they won’t tell just anyone. They will only tell me.”
“And you will give up the man to the king’s guard?”
“Not I, but my lord husband. Once we have returned to court.” She stood and walked over to me, her hand fluttering out to tuck a stray hair back into my headpiece. “I am also not a Cromwell supporter.”
Now this made me smile, for who really was besides the king? Lowly Cromwell’s sway over the king would soon come to an end, I was certain of it. “I see we shall be very good friends indeed.”
“My husband is also not a Cromwell supporter. Help to put our name back to rights. Gain us entrance back at court, and together we shall see Cromwell, the puppet master of the king, fall. The lowborn son of a drunkard should never be allowed to plan the fates of those born of royal and noble blood.”
I dipped a curtsy. “I could not agree more.”
Now I just needed to convince Edward of the same. We needed friends, the more the better in order for us to gain leverage and for me to become a duchess.