Ink and Steel

“As well as any man, I warrant, although I’m not sure he has his cousin’s …”

Hunsdon, inimitably plainspoken, smiled. “Ruthlessness?”

“Yes.”

“That can be achieved. You may find yourself opposed tonight.”

“My lord, how does one oppose a play?”

Hunsdon’s elaborate doublet, covered by a gown, rose and fell over the narrow old-man’s shoulders it padded. He knotted his fingers to control their palsied trembling; Will looked away.

“On a day when devils arise from Hell to pull down our allies, anything is possible.” He stepped away, turned back, the pointed tip of his beard quivering. “Long live the Queen.”

“Long live the Queen,” Will replied.

16 August 1596