“Anya, it is not so easy, the king has changed to the Roman Church from the Culdees. I do not exactly see eye to eye with Rome on the issue,” Cuthbert explained with a half smile.

I am in the service of the king & must do his bidding, whether or not I agree & disturbing as it may be I must meet some standards I may not be pleased about. It so happens that you cause me great conflict. You arouse passions in me that are unsettling. I do what I must to fulfill my duty & honor, I only ask that you do just a little so that I do not have to send you away, he continued with a pleading look in his eyes.

Now in a booming voice Cuthbert continued, “You do vex me so! At nearly every turn, you present a new problem to be dealt with. Were I not an honorable man you would have found your self used, defiled, & sold long ago. I should hate you for all my folk were slain at the hands of your people when I was not much more than a lad, but I find you appealing as a woman & enjoy your sprit.”

Calming slightly, Arnhand rambled on, “I have no wife & may take none without consent, were I ever to take such as you before the King I should become a laughingstock if I managed to keep my head.” Exasperated by his own emotions he through up his hands. Cuthbert snapped, “Drat you woman, can you not see how I feel!”

Cuthbert sat now with his head in his hands. He knew that he had said far too much in hast.