THE DOOR OPENED and the jester Norbert stood there, bent over a bowl, picking his teeth with a hazel twig. His jaw dropped as if he had seen a ghost.

Gads...Hugh! You've come back after all.

He grinned broadly, then shuffled up to me with that sideways gait of his. What a joy to see you, lad.

And you, Norbert, I replied, embracing him with my good arm.

Woundedagain ? You're like a human target, son, he cried. But come in, I'm glad to see you back. I want to hear it all.

The jester yanked out a low stool for me to sit on. Then he poured a cup of wine and sat facing me. I can see in your eyes you've not come here with much cheer. So tell me... Did you find her? What is the fate of your Sophie?

I lowered my eyes from those of my friend.

You were right, Norbert. It was just a dream to think she had somehow survived. I am sure she is dead.

He nodded, then leaned across and squeezed me in a fatherly way. A man's allowed to dream every once in a while. We little people live on it. I'm sorry for your loss, Hugh.

Norbert shuddered, letting out a gravelly cough.

You're ill? I asked with concern.

Just under the weather. He waved me off. Too many years of crawling around with the beetles down here. He cleared his throat again. Tell me this-how did it go at court with Baldwin? Did you get the job?

I finally could smile at something. Idid , just as we planned. In fact, I think I was a success.

I knew it! The jester leaped up. I knew you would be. I taught you well, boy, didn't I? Tell me. I have to know it all.

Suddenly the weariness in my body seemed to recede; my face blushed brightly with the memories of entertaining the court. I told him everything. How I had managed my way into the castle, how I had seized upon the moment to go before the court. The jokes I had used... How the duke had sent away poor Palimpost.

That old fart... I knew the sod was out of tricks. Norbert hopped around, cackl............