Chapter 16Kingsham, Sussex, late-summer, 712 AD
“My friend, what joy to see you! What brings you to Kingsham? Do you mean to stay a while or are you passing through? What news of my mother?”
Osburh looked at his lifelong companion with affection. How he had missed his restless energy, manifested now in this bombardment of questions.
“Let's begin with your last question. Sister Cynethryth, bless her, is in fine health and sends greetings and a recommendation.”
“What would that be?”
“Be not rash and restless.”
“What makes me think that is your counsel?”
The sheepish grin spoke for itself, but Osburh continued, holding out his hand for perusal, “She saved my hand, your mother, another couple of days and I'd have lost it! All I have is this reminder, thanks to her skill.”
Aethelheard g
