He whispered to Bailiff Ernoul then to the cleric recording the proceedings and passed judgment. "Ye will forfeit the use of yer left hand!"

The spectators didn't react. The punishment for being without a home was serious, but the guilty man seemed incapable of understanding that his left hand would be removed. He politely thanked the steward.

"Herdsman Odo Read, ye are called before the court to face the charge of horse theft!"

The court ...