Chapter 4Wareham, Dorset, 694 AD
If anyone had asked Cynethryth to describe her new friend, especially in the early days of their association, she would have had difficulty. Each day revealed some new aspect of Cuthburga's personality, such was her complexity. An austere appearance with assiduousness in fasting and prayer belied the kindly nature of the nun. Cynethryth, flattered to be accorded so much attention and to have secured the confidences of the holy woman, remained captivated in her presence. Gradually, she confided her innermost emotions and Cuthburga gave serious thought to her protégée's desire to serve the sick and infirm. Astute as she was, she did not separate this revelation from Cynethryth's oft expressed yearning to see her son. It was therefore some time before Cuthbur
