Chapter 15: Grateful

(Lady Alwen narrates)

This morning I am able to send four carts containing barrels of ale and water to Bartown. My coopers, maltsters and brewsters are working flat out, with every brew tun full to the brim with fermenting ale. The empty barrels returned yesterday were opened, scalded and rinsed out. Then they were refilled and loaded ready first thing this morning. I even sent a cart out yesterday to collect empty barrels from other ale houses, rather than leave them until their next delivery day.

I feel good in myself now, though I felt tired and pained somewhat yesterday. I am filled with energy today.

I send another letter to William with the first dray out, which should arrive before noon. I know he cannot reply to me, as we have no idea of the risk involved in any object upon which the pestilence has settled and fermented.

There is talk of war in Chester, that the Prince of Powys has sacked the city in reprisal for past transgressions. That is the word the draymen bring from Bartown. No one but the refugees believe it is a Welch invasion, the Welch are too few and the barons without too strong. Those that run from Chester tried to enter Bartown, but have been moved on. Some come to the hamlet of Brey, where there is a Cluniac monastery which is well provided for and will offer succour where they may.

More people on the roads mean delays getting to the town and back. And the more desperate people are the more my deliveries and my draymen are in danger. If only Robin and Hugh were here, they could have ridden with them to deter and protect from the malcontent.