The preceptors smile grew larger. "Sir William told me that I would enjoy yer company, he said ye were..." the preceptor paused as he sought for the right word. "...uh, gregarious, and different from most other men he'd met. I tend to agree with him." The preceptor leaned forward. "Tell me, is it true ye travelled to France and met with King Henry?"

Odo heard Jagger's sharp intake of breath. He hadn't told him about that.

"Aye, I travelled with ...