Many knew I had helped to provide the fine cushions that padded the hard wooden seats beneath the bums of earls and countesses who graced the expensive gallery seats at the Globe. I'd copied rolls for Will and his fellows as well as taken his dictation. In the disastrous performance but three days ago, I'd held the book and prompted the players. I'd once helped with costumes, and that at court too. I'd done many things for the players behind the scenes, as they put it. Of late certain nobles had given me donated garments to pass on to Will's fellows. Since they be busy today, I am to fetch you to receive the garb." "Three figured brocade gowns, two fine sleeves with points and ribbon ties, a butterfly ruff and velvet cloak for the Lord Chamberlain's players to use at the Globe Theatre. "I know where that is, lad, but have you not mistook me for another? I have naught to do with the queen's wardrobe." "'Tis all waiting for you at the Great Wardrobe nearby." "Didn't want me carrying all that through the streets," he added. "'Tis a tie from a fine pair of sleeves meant for you with other garments too, once adorning Her Majesty's person," he recited in a high, singsong voice as he placed a willow-green velvet ribbon laced with gold thread in my hand. He must have a missive saying someone was ill. "Who wants to know?" I asked as he extended something to me. The boy was no street urchin but was well attired and sported a clean face and hands. I'd been on edge for three days, not only because of the aborted rebellion against the queen, but because Will and I were at such odds over it-and over our own relationship. When I opened my door at mid-morn and saw the strange boy, I should have known something was wrong.
0 kommentar(er)
