"I'm not sure why everyone thinks I'm the lynch pin of the White Rose Party. I'm a simple farm boy."

"You're far from simple, Neville. My spies have been watching as you've seamlessly weave yourself into the hearts of those around you. Especially the King. Somehow you've managed to pull off a great deception."

"I thought Simone was one of your spies, yet you threaten her person."

"I'm not the one who would harm her. There are others factions vying for power in this monarchy. If you give me the cipher book, I promise I shall do my best to protect you."

"Ha! I doubt you could protect me from the she-devil in my sheets." Neville thought longingly of his purloined down covered bed. "I've been fighting Princess Mary off all night." Exhausted, he sat down. Reaching across the table, he refilled his cup of ale. He felt as if he'd aged fifty years since arriving at Hampton court.

With the information about the King's daughter, Walsingham became more alert and attentive. "Princess Mary was trying to molest you? In your bed?"

"Yes. Unfortunately, she's still there." When Walsingham didn't answer, he added. "I'm not making this up about her. Go and see for yourself. She's in my bed."

"No need. I believe you." Walsingham grew reflective. "Her great aunt, Juana The Mad, suffered from insanity. I've noted Mary's become increasingly introverted since her mother died. Especially after she was exiled from court. I question her capacity to wear the crown if her brother should die. This is serious, Neville, but we can help prevent this disaster. Where's the cipher?"

"Why don't you write a new one." Neville had found a heel of French bread to go with his ale. He ripped a piece of bread off the loaf, wondering if he could scrounge up a piece of meat for an early breakfast.

Walsingham's patience was wearing thin. "Of course we've already implemented a new code, but they're existing letters the old book can be unlocked. Correspondence that would get many hanged. Or worse."

"Even if I had the cipher, why would I give it to you? I'm not the only one in jeopardy. If you're exposed, you'll hang with me. You would be well served to ensure nothing untoward happens to me. I'm not a fool."

"You're in no position to barter with me, Imposter. Besides, I know it's the ale making you bold."

Before Neville could respond, they both heard the tread of heavy footsteps approaching in the hall. Walsingham motioned for Neville to remain silent, then pulled him into the shadowy corner of the room, out of sight.

A moment later, a slight, hump-backed man entered the kitchen hall. He was followed by a set of armed guards. From his vantage point, Neville could see the man had a simian face with a thin red beard and pale green eyes. He used a cane to help him walk. When he saw Neville's half eaten plate of food, his expression grew thoughtful. "Search in here. I want Walsigham found, and then arrested."

With lit torches, the guards started searching each section of the room. Walsingham grabbed Neville's arm. "Come with me." He whispered. Moving stealthily, he pulled Neville behind him through a hidden door in the kitchen's stone wall.