Charlotte was livid. "Those fences are strong, there is no way the cows could have pushed their way through. Someone tore down the fence rails Odo Read, and because of it, ye are now in trouble!"

"What can I do? Nothing, not a thing. I accepted responsibility for Blacky and will have to pay Lord Ridgley his worth. I hate to think of the cost."

"And the damage to the crops? Will that be a lot?" she asked.

"I don't know. The lord will likely have me pay for damages and ...