'You picked a most inclement day for your journey.' Canon Peter ushered him into the hall. 'The carriers say the road to the west is impassable.'
'I was obliged to make a detour through the woods,' John said. 'It proved more hazardous than I anticipated. If it had not been for the quick thinking of one of my men, we might not be here now.'
'Whatever happened?'
'We encountered some Welsh archers. I'm sure they intended to rob us. My man convinced them that I knew Sir Guy Gascoigne and could put in a good word for them when his recruiting sergeant made his rounds.'
'Did they leave you alone?'
'They volunteered their services as guides. At a price, I might add.'
'And you accepted?'
'It seemed unwise to refuse.'
'I can fully understand that,' Canon Peter nodded gravely. 'It doesn't do to argue with these fellows. They'll slit your throat at the slightest provocation.'
They stopped at one of the tables. John had a feeling the monk was going to raise the delicate matter of the poached venison. To his relief, another matter was on his mind.
'Before you left Sherborne you would have heard the result of the election?'
'The vicar announced it in All Hallows,' John said.
Canon Peter nodded gravely. 'We received a brief report when the pigeons arrived. We are yet to receive formal advice from the prior.'
'I understand that Canon Bradford dictated a letter for the prior's signature,' John said. 'I assume it has been delayed by the weather.'
'You say Bradford dictated the letter ... not the Father Prior?'
'That is my understanding.'
The canon's head continued to nod.
'Do you know what form the election took?'
'A group of seven was chosen to nominate the next abbot.'
'And how were they chosen?'
'I am told they were nominated by the prior.'
'And do you know who proposed those names to the Father Prior?'
'No.' John shook his head.
Canon Peter paused as if to consider the point.
'You seem very well informed, Master Baret. Is there anything else you think I should know?'
John took the cue and launched into his prepared speech on the tensions between the parish and the abbey. Canon Peter bought the monologue to a swift halt.
'Thank you, Master Baret. I look forward to your views on this unfortunate matter. I suggest we discuss your concerns tomorrow. We should now take our places at table. There are those amongst my colleagues who wish to meet you.'