Palace Backyard

strolling through the palace backyard lost in my thoughts

Jasper had arisen in the morning and decided to go for a stroll. His dog bounded in front of him, excited at the new surroundings, occasionally barking at a starling which whistled by...

"Charles was walking around Backyard. He liked having a relaxing walk in the morning before starting his duties. He noticed a man walking there with a dog, never seen before. He approached him silently"

My lord...

Jasper glanced up as he heard his dog begin to bark. He gave a quick whistle and the dog scampered to his feet,"Good day sir...you must forgive my mutt, it's still a young thing."

"Charles looked at the dog and smiled"

It's a very beautiful dog. I'm planning to buy one too. Oh! My name is Charles Brandon, duke of Suffolk. You must be new to court, I guess...

"He said, raising his eyes"

"Haha why thankyou, he is rather friendly...despite initial impressions,"Jasper said warmly as laughed a little, giving the dog and kind pat on the back.

Upon hearing the man's name he swept a bow,"A pleasure, Your Grace. And yes, I arrived just yesterday...I am Jasper Crawley, Duke of Lancaster. Would you like to walk?"

"Charles bowed back at him and nodded slightly"

Of course, lord Crawley...

"He kept on walking with him along backyard"

Where are you from?

Edward snapped his fingers and the dog trotted ahead,"Berkshire...not too far from here but a good days solid travel on horse back. And you, Your Grace, from Suffolk I presume?"he asked with a grin.

"Charles nodded with a smile, looking around"

You presume right, my lord. My family is from Suffolk. But I spent most of my childhood here at court. My father was closest friend to Henry VII, King's father...

"He explained, his arms behind his back"

"And now you are His Majesty's closest friend. Your Grace should be praised for your loyalties to Their Majesties, not only yours but your families. 'Tis to be commended,"Jasper said thoughtfully.

"He smiled proudly"

I am, indeed. Later, my father was slain by Richard III in person at the battle of Bosworth Field. And King Henry and I grew up together like brothers...

"He added, remembering for a while that old times"

"Ah, well unfortunately my family has ties with Richard the third...and His Majesty. As Your Grace could imagine those were...trying times. It was during those bloody days my family were called the 'wolves in the walls', because they were cunning enough to always be on the winning side and do so discreetly...I fear not as staunchly loyal as your parentage,"Jasper said but felt a spark of pride at his forefathers intelligence and battlefield valour.

"Charles listened him with interest and nodded thoughtfully"

Well...those are past days, thank God. But we have to be proud of our ancestors. They made England's history. Nowadays, we're living troubled times too. You surely heard about King's great matter...

"He said, turning towards him"

Jasper laughed,"Of course, tales of this had reached the country. In troth I think Katherine a fine queen and beloved of the people...and yet must trust His Majesty...as a loyal servant."

"He nodded quitetely"

Indeed, my lord. But you know, as Henry's best friend, I have to be at his side. I even was his brother in law, once...

"He added with a deep sigh"

"Yes, Your Grace. I must pass belated condolences for your loss…I cannot imagine how great the loss of a spouse...of a wife, would be and should hope you do not ever feel that pain again. Therefore I must also pass my congratulations for your engagement to…Lady Willoughby? I hope it will be a happy union,"Jasper said with a friendly smile and patted him on the shoulder.

"Charles smiled after his words"

Thank you, my lord. Yes...I'm going to marry my pupil, lady Catherine Willoughby. Mourning period is over. So...I think it's time to start a new life with her...

Jasper smiled,"That is a good attitude to have, Your Grace. I am sure she will make you very happy."

He then laughed a little and added light heartedly,"I hope I get an invite to the wedding."

"Charles nodded with a surprised smile"

But of course...why not, lord Crawley? My future wife will be delighted to meet you. Are you married too, my lord?

"He asked curiously"

Jasper laugh lightly and replied,"I look forward to meeting her too-I'm sure she is a virtuous lady indeed."

He the smiled and brushed down his coat,"No, I am suitably unattached."

"Charles giggled a bit while shrugging"

Uhm...you can stil enjoy freedom, my lord. Be happy about that, until you have time...Anyway yes, she is really virtuous lady. She is just 17 years old, after all...

Jasper laughed,"That is true however the boundless freedom can be tiring."

He then raised his eyebrows and laughed in a friendly manner,"Seventeen? Well..."

"He took a breath while smiling"

Yes...I know I'm much older than her. She is still so unexperienced. But she is also so pretty and clever...

"I am sure with You Grace as her guide she will learn quickly. I could think of worse fates for a young girl of seventeen...many would wish with valour to be a duchess,"he then shrugged and added,"Though this lady seems pious indeed so I am sure you will both be happy."

as i sit on the bench in the backyard still reading the poems Thomas had gave me, for it is peaceful here