Sir Hyde did not feel like laughing when Sir Gweir and Steward Baldric returned to Ridgley Manor and explained what transpired at Mellester. He was deep in thought, pacing in front of the hearth. "So Lord Mellester is in need of coin and will rob the workers to get it. If he carries on like this, the mill will never be built. The workers will revolt and could spread to other manors, and that is the last thing King Henry needs."

"That is what I believe too, sire," answered Sir ...