'They didn't,' Richard Rochell smiled. 'He was picked by the privileged few. They take turns to spread the benefices around. Their ancestors put up the money for the abbey and they think they have a right to it.'
'What happens next?'
'They must get the bishop to agree to the appointment.'
'But they've just told the world they want Bradford. Shouldn't they wait until Robert Neville gives his approval? They'd look damned stupid if he turned them down.'
'They certainly would,' Richard chuckled. 'It's just possible but I wouldn't pin any hopes on it.'
'Supposing Neville agrees ... is Bradford then abbot?'
'He needs royal accent.'
'Is that automatically granted?'
'At a price …'
'How much do you pay to become an abbot?'
'His Majesty is currently looking for places of retirement for senior court officials. Many are in Holy Orders. Saint Thomas on the Green needs a new rector and would provide a comfortable living for a worthy gentleman in his declining years.'
They were distracted by axe blows. John was surprised to see Robin attacking a yew tree. He jumped up.
'What are you doing?'
Robin shouldered his axe and walked across.
'Good Morrow, Master Baret ... Master Rochell.'
He touched his forelock respectfully.
'I'm cutting wood for bows. The tree will come down when the new almshouse is built. I'm getting in before the wrong people do.'
'What wrong people?'
'People who shouldn't have it.'
'What makes you think you're not one of them?'
Robin put down his axe. 'Sir Harald Gascoigne has given five oaks for the new almshouse. I reckon he should have it.'
John's mood changed. 'You could have asked first.'
'There wasn't time. Wat Gallor and his men were talking about it in the George. They said they'd come down and take it.'
John remained stony faced. 'Master Rochell and I are unaware of what you are doing and shall remain ignorant so long as you restrict your attention to that tree.'
'Aye, Master.'
Robin shouldered the axe and walked away.
'He's a good lad,' John said. 'He's staying with me at present. Very level headed and reliable. I wish the same could be said of William Bradford. The man has no sense of proportion. I'd hate to work for him.'
'What do you think his first move will be?'
'The vicar thinks Bradford will ask Neville to censure the parish. The illegal font is our biggest liability. It could weigh heavily against us in an ecclesiastical court.'