The costal fog of early morning hung dankly to everything it touched and Lambert's leathers clung limply to his arms and legs. He was aware that the Northmen had to be still waiting for a favorable breeze before setting sail for the next village marked for pillage, for the air had been still since the terrified villager had stumbled into his camp the previous afternoon to tell of the attack on his village of Lilo. The soldiers of Mons had been packed and ready for marching within minutes of Lambert’s command to break camp. They marched without a break the rest of the day and on through the night. The going was slow in the dark of night and the fog even shut out the starlight. The bogs beside the path sucked in and tried to hold the unlucky foot that stepped into them. Now he and his men moved cautiously along the path toward the sea, listening for any sounds that would indicate that the object of their march was near at hand. Soon they began to hear the not too distant sea as it lapped the sand covered shore, but there was no other sound, even the sea birds kept to their perches in this thick soup of a fog.

Lambert whispered "Halt" and his command passed down the column. He then spoke softly to Robert, one of his scouts, "Go ahead to the shore and see what there is to see. We will rest here until you report back." Robert was a young man of only sixteen or seventeen summers of age. His father was a huntsman and had taught his son well in the ways of the forest. No other man could move as quickly and silently through dense growth as this young Robert. After receiving his orders, the scout moved swiftly ahead and disappeared into the fog. Lambert's men, glad for the chance to rest, collapsed into the small patches of wet marsh grass on the sides of the path.

The time for rest was short. Young Robert was suddenly at Lambert's side without anyone observing his arrival. "My Lord", he excitedly whispered, "they all sleep, including the watch. Still drunk I'd reckon for all the empty flasks around."

Lambert quickly called for his captains and gave them their orders. "Have your men form skirmish lines around the entire enemy camp and attack simultaneously on my command." Then Lambert's own group silently worked their way around to the beach side of the village. When men were in place he waited only moments before he raised his sword and shouted, "For Mons." and plunged into the camp of the now awakening Norsemen. His shout was echoed from the throats of his three hundred valiant men, "for Mons and Lambert! Lambert! Lambert!” as they charged swinging swords and long axes. There were no sounds of clanks of metal against the Norsemen's shields, only screams and groans as the Vikings were dispatched to join their ancestors in Valhalla. The battle, if one could call it that, was over as quickly as it began. There wasn't a single injury to report when the men of Mons rallied.

A breeze was beginning to stir the leaves on the trees and the fog was a little less dense. The day's first light filtered through revealing a scene that was horrifying.

Lambert shouted "Search the few huts that the Norsemen have not burned for any surviving villagers." Two huts were found with some of the young girls of the village in them. They were bound hand and foot like animals. All the men, the older women and the children of the village lay about the area with their heads split open like melons. Two soldiers of Brabant were found bound and tortured to death. These poor hapless men had their entrails removed and arranged in the Norse fashion 'shaped to resemble an eagle in flight'. Norse soothsayers believed that they could predict the future in the folds and curls seen in the display. Lambert shuddered at the thought of any man performing such an act for entertainment. "If as the Vikings believe, the entrails of ones enemies can predict the future they would surely have seen their death this day." Lambert said aloud to himself. A soldier standing nearby thought that Lambert's remark was directed to him. "At least there are over two hundred fewer Vikings now to murder and rape in the villages along the coast and the waterways of Brabant." he answered.

There had been fewer raids this year than in previous years. Since his marriage, which brought as dowry the Countdom of Lovayne? Lovayne and the Count of Gent also sent out patrols. The patrol from Lovayne, under the command of his son, took the spring patrol and the men of Mons patrolled in the fall. Winter was now approaching and he would be able to return to Mons with his men. He had the men give a Christian burial to the villagers before removing valuables, looted by the Northmen, from the dragon ships. The weapons and valuables of the slain were the property of his men, but the treasures stored on the dragon ships were his as the Count of Mons.

The sun had burned through the fog by mid-day and was well to the west before the grisly tasks of the soldiers were completed. Swarms of flies had been attracted to the last of the corpses. The last task was the placing of all the slain Norsemen if their ships, piling them high with brush and setting them aflame before putting them adrift in the currents of the northern sea.

Count Lambert had the men pitch camp and prepare food so that all could rest for the night before beginning the return march to Mons. His tent was set up in the center of the village common beside the tent of his nephew, Reginar V, the son of his brother, Reginar IV. His brother, the Count of Hainault, had sent his son to Lambert, as a youth, for education and training that would enable him to rule with skill and sagacity when he took his father's position as Count. Now as a man he returned each fall to go out on patrol. Before Lambert's tent stood his personal standard topped with a female centaur holding aloft the thorny rose of Mons. Against the staff leaned his battle shield of Mons, a silver shield blazoned with three red roses, their petals in the shape of spearheads. The roses resembled three stars as a result of the petal shapes. Beside the shield were skins piled high with the stolen treasures taken from the Viking ships. This village must have been the last raid just to obtain girls to present as slaves and concubines on their return to their own village, for surly there was nothing else that this poor village had that was worthy of pillage.

Lambert strolled over to the treasures piled on skins and gazed in wonder. There were beautiful crafted utensils made of gold and silver encrusted with precious stones, cloths of fine wool, linen and many bolts of sheer shiny fabric in white and several bright colors. The latter fabric he had never seen before.

Reginar approached with the scribe. "What have we this time Uncle?" he asked and then was struck dumb at the sight. "By all that is holy, My Lord; I'd swear that the bolts of cloth are that wondrous material said to be from far off Cathay." crooned the scribe.  "How could those Viking fiends come by such a treasure?"

Lambert pondered the question a moment and then replied, "I've heard that these Vikings raid as far away as the sea that is south of Rome. They must have taken some of this loot from a merchant ship sailing those waters." He then added, "What name is given this fabric?"

"I know not my Lord, but tis said to be made by magic of some sort." answered the scribe.

"I saw it once in Paris, Uncle." crowed Reginar. "It is called silk and is worth more than its weight in gold. It is said to be made from the wool of a worm."

Lambert laughed. "Worm wool indeed. I hope you filled your head with more factual knowledge than that when I sent you there to read the law." He paused, pulling his beard, and then said "But I have seen some worms with what might be referred to as fur, so perhaps there is truth in what you've heard." He turned to the scribe, "Tally all this and place it in my tent."

He walked away as Reginar and the scribe eagerly sorted through the wondrous treasures. His men sat about the village in small groups. Some were still eating and others were playing games of chance for the coins and other items of value gleaned from the fallen Vikings. He knew every man by name and knew much about the families from which they came.

He saw Gui, a veteran of many battles, sitting alone sharpening his great broadsword. His many scars from wounds stood white against his sun browned skin. As Lambert drew near he was greeted by a friendly smile of broken teeth. "Welcome My Lord." He said as he quickly rose to his feet.

Seeing a grimace caused by sore tired leg muscles, Lambert commanded "Sit, sit! Don't stir your ancient bones on my account."

"Ancient? These bones may be tired, but there are many years left in them for your service My Lord."

True, for mine ache also after double day marches, but I look forward to many more active years before I'll consider allowing someone else lead these patrols. Are you sharpening that sword of yours in preparation for another fight on the morrow?"

Nay my Lord, 'tis rusty from the wet. I am removing the rust before coating with oil to keep the metal dry." He laid the sword aside and withdrew a leather pouch from beneath his belt. "I must show you a holy trinket that I took from one of the Vikings." He removed a metal chain and medallion of some sort from the pouch and held it out to Lambert.

Lambert took it and on inspection saw that is was a silver chain with a cross intricately designed to look like it was made of fine lace. Its threads sparkled as the cross was moved.

"That I shall give to my Sarah when we return to Mons." said Gui.

"She will be the proudest woman in all of Mons. It is a thing of great beauty." Then Lambert added "Even the Countess will be envious."

Gui stammered "Th-then take it for the Countess Sire? I would not that the Countess be envious of my Sarah."

Lambert held out the necklace shaking his head. "No! Give it to Sarah. Sometimes I feel that we spoil the Countess too much. She has more jewels than she could ever wear. Besides, your Sarah deserves it. She has never, to my knowledge, complained when I take you away before the end of harvest."

"Nay, My lord, she knew what to expect when she agreed to be my wife. She knew that soldering was first in my life."

Young Robert, the scout, approached. "Your evening meal is prepared My Lord. We have freshly baked bread, cheese and a bottle of fine wine furnished by one of the women of the village."

Lambert nodded to Robert and spoke to Gui. "I'll see you on the morrow. Have a restful night." He then accompanied young Robert to his tent where two beautiful maids of the village were already serving Reginar. The girls were laughing and flirting outrageously as though the horrors of the past two days had been forgotten. Lambert begrudged them their ability to push troubles from their minds. Yet the sound of their laughter did much to raise his spirits.

As he drew nearer, the girls grew silent, stood aside and bowed their heads. One, a lusty blond maiden of sixteen or so, raised her mischievous eyes and spoke.  "A good eve to you Sire. May we serve your meal also?"

Her smile was infectious and he smiled in return as he nodded acceptance and took a seat at the crude table that had been set for the meal.

After he had been served and had eaten he sat back to enjoy the goblet of fruity wine. "This food was delicious and the wine is excellent." He commented; please give my gratitude to our benefactress." His thanks and obvious pleasure was rewarded by beaming smiles from both girls.  "What can I give in return for such hospitality?" he asked.

"Sire, some of the women do not wish to leave the village. The few villagers that managed to escape have begun returning and" she hurried to add before he could speak "a few of your men would like to remain here and take wives."

He smiled. She had spoken the last portion of her request as though it might be unthinkable, but the same had occurred before in other villages and would happen again in the next or the next. He had lost many good men from his patrols after they had met village beauties that thought of them as great heroes and loved them for rescuing them from a fate worse than death. "My men are free to stay if they have no indenture or bonds in Mons." He replied

"Oh thank you my Lord." cried the girl. She threw her arms around his neck and covered his bearded face with kisses. His goblet was knocked flying and the girl quickly withdrew. Her face was as red as the roses of Mons. "Please forgive me My Lord." cried the girl "I forgot my place because you've made me so happy." She stood, head lowered, wondering if the Count would allow her to live out the day after so great a blunder on her part.

Count Lambert regained his composure, "Think nothing of it my dear. I can see that some soldier in my service has made a choice that he will not regret." He turned to Reginar, "Have the priest sanctify any unions required and see that the men that stay in the village receive full pay for this patrol. We return to Mons on the morrow."

       

 

The patrol had taken the men of Mons as far north as the hook of the coast beyond the Maas and Waal rivers. They had crossed the Maas only the day before the attack of the Northmen on the village of Lilo and now crossed the river again and marched south toward Mons for two days. They forded the river at Boom Crossing just east of Tamiset. The carts containing the belongings of the village girls made the going slow. There would be at least two more days of travel before they reached Mons.

As Count Lambert swayed in cadence to the slow stride of his horse he pondered matters that occupied much of his thoughts lately. The weakening of power of all the rulers in the land worried him. If it continued it might affect Brabant and Hainault even more than it had already. His family had ruled this vast area since times before Charlemagne reached out from Brabant to subjugate the Roman Empire. The Dukes and Counts of Brabant, Hainault and Lovayne had always handled problems of their own domain with little or no help from outside. The troubles that existed today had all started a hundred and fifty years ago in Verdun when Louis and Charles forced their brother Lothair to divide the empire and retain the title of Emperor. Lothair got the domain from above Brabant down into Italy. He made matters worse when he died by dividing his portion between his two sons; Lothair II got this northern portion called Lothair. Then in 870 A.D. at Mersen the French and German kings decided to divide the area again. They called the area Upper Lorraine and this area Lower Lorraine. Since then Lorraine had been a bone of contention between France and Germany.

Seven years ago Otto III was crowned King of Germany and three years ago Hugh Capet was elected King of France. Otto III is a child ten years of age and Hugh Capet has no real power outside Parris. The northern Dukedoms, and that included Brabant and Hainault in Lorraine, were distant from their Child King. The Dukes and counts of Lower Lorraine were very much on their own. His cousin, Baldwin Count of Flanders, held the reins of government there and because of his close family ties with Lorraine and also Normandy was feared by the King of France. A messenger from Charles Duke of Lorraine had reached him only two weeks ago. The message said that Duke Charles wanted to meet with him at the earliest possible time to discuss matters of mutual interest. What ever these matters could be must be very grave for why would he send the messenger to find him while he was on patrol. Reginar had put down the whole mater by saying "Charles is like an old woman, it's most likely trivial and Charles is blowing something up all out of proportion." Still Lambert worried.

Thinking of Reginar, Lambert turned to check the rear of the patrol where Reginar followed with the village maidens and their carts. He was basking in their attentions. "Oh to be young again!" he mused.

"'Tis growing late My Lord. Shall we be stopping soon for the night?"

Startled, Lambert turned around to see who spoke. Rodolf, one of his captains awaited an answer.

"Oh! Yes of course. We will only have to go a little further to the village of Assche. The scouts have been sent ahead to inform the villagers of our expected arrival. Tonight we will have meat, fresh bread and wine."

The men that were near enough to overhear his reply quickly passed the word back through the column. "The Count says we'll eat this night in Assche. Meat, bread and wine."

Minute's later Reginar reined his horse to a halt beside him. I hear that we will have a great feast in Assche. There will be entertainment, music, dancing and all the wine we can drink."

Lambert shook his head perplexed. "If my countdoms could grow as fast as that tale, I'd be Count of the World by the morrow. Food and a little wine will be quite sufficient. Now ride back to your maids and see how long it takes you to get this wild tale corrected while you are on your way."

Reginar's face fell and he muttered as he returned to the end of the column.

Within the hour the standard bearer called "Smoke ahead!" and the men looked to see the smoke from the ovens and cooking fires of Assche. A shout went up. Soon they could see villagers running toward them and presently they heard shouts of welcome. The fatigue of the soldiers seemed to lift and the pace increased the speed of the carts. It was a good ending for a very long day.

The men of Mons entered the village to the clamor of barking dogs, squealing pigs, squawking fowls and people shouting. It was a beehive of activity and noise.

Lambert saw Old Drogo, the village chief, emerge from his hut followed by Little Drogo. Little Drogo wasn't so little any more. He toward above his stooped father by more than a head. Both smiled as Lambert dismounted to accept the hospitality of the village. Little Drogo stood silently with head bowed as Drogo spoke the ritual words of welcome. The ritual ended with Drogo bowing his head to await the acceptance of the great Lord.

Lambert didn't respond in the expected manner. Instead he stepped forward, grasped the Chief in a bear hug clapping him on the back. Releasing the Chief from the embrace he clasped Drogo's shoulders as he spoke "Drogo, it's good to see you. You look as hearty and healthy as ever."

"Thank you My Lord. I wish what you say was true, but I fear that I may not have many more winters ahead. Little Drogo may be Drogo the Chief by the time of your next visit to our humble village. Already I find I must leave much to his able hands."

"Nonsense. Come show me around the village. I saw several new huts that were not here when last I came." They walked about the village with Lambert supporting the arm of the Chief. The breasts of the watching villagers swelled with pride to see their chief so honored by this great Lord.

Tables had been set for the Lord and his officers and skins were spread about on the ground for the men of Mons. The women of the village carried baskets of bread from the ovens to the shade for cooling.  Boys still turned spits over hot embers on which huge roasts were on skewers.

When the tour was over, Drogo seated the Count and his officers at their table and then raised his hand for silence. He nodded to his son. Little Drogo moved forward and shouted, "Men of Mons, Drogo the mighty chief of Assche bids you come, sit and eat."

With much disorder each man found a skin to sit upon and the women began to serve the food. The women of Drogo's own household served Lambert and his officers. The women and children of Assche sat about to watch. They would eat after the men had all been fed. This was the old way, practiced still in these Frankish villages even in these modern times.

When the men had eaten and were being served wine a youth came out of one of the huts and bowed to Lambert. He carried an ancient looking string instrument on which he began to strum slowly. Then with a voice as sweet as an angel he began to sing. The song was a story of an ancient time. A time that may never have been when men were free from aggression and fear, free to love and play, to hunt and fish. A time of plenty in all the land.

All that were present remained spellbound and silent even after the last haunting note was sung. The youth broke the spell by bowing again to Lambert and rushing toward his hut.

The men applauded and shouted for another song. Instead three young men came forward juggling Saxon throwing axes. A group that performed old Freisland dances followed them.

When the performance was over, Lambert called for all the entertainers to return and rewarded each with silver coins and thanked them. He in turn thanked Drogo for the food and drink as well as the entertainment.

Lambert's captains searched out their men to get them bedded down for a night's rest before the morning.

Two days later, before noon, they arrived at the junction of the highroad between Zinnik and Mons and knew that they would be in Mons well before nightfall. Then a little over an hour's march from the city Lambert saw six riders on the horizon. He knew that these were the outer guard soldiers of Mons. He watched to see how long it would take before his banner was recognized. Before he could make out the red and white livery; two of the riders wheeled their horses and raced full stride toward Mons. Two remained at their station and the other two rode toward the column. Without guessing Lambert knew that Luitbert was in charge of the northern outpost this day. Only his old eyes would have made out the banner of Mons at so great a distance. He turned to Reginar "One of the riders approaching is Luitbert."

"Luitbert? What ever makes you think that Uncle? Would you care to wager?"

"Very well. But make it easy on yourself. I'm sure that I am right this time."

"All right, if it's Luitbert I'll serve your meal this very evening, and if it's not you will serve mine. Acceptable Uncle?"

"Accepted Nephew. Serve me white wine before the meal."

"That wont be likely, dear Uncle, the odds are in my favor."

Shortly Luitbert and Milo drew rein before the column and saluted. "Remember the white wine before the meal." chuckled Lambert.

"But how could you have known? All you could have seen was two riders on horseback and that none too well. Was it a lucky guess?"

"No it wasn't a lucky guess. Don't you remember the teachings I gave to you when you were in my care as a youth? I said get to know the men in your service. I have learned as much as I can about each man, woman and child in my Countdom. Luitbert can see clearly much further than others in charge of the Northern Outpost. I knew it was him when he recognized the banner at so great a distance. You can forget the wager, but always remember the things that I have taught you."

"Thank you Uncle Lambert. One thing I'm very slow at learning is that I should never doubt you."

Lambert called to Luitbert "What news do you have from Mons?"

"Duke Charles of Lorraine passed through two weeks ago My Lord. I believe he awaits your return at your Hornu Castle."

"Waits?" inquired Lambert.  "How many are in his retinue?"

"I know not the exact number My Lord. I saw only his attendants, the Duchess and her attendants, several knights and a small company of mounted soldiers." Then Luitbert added quickly "A great Lady, I know not her name, travels with them."

"May the Saints preserve us, my larder will be empty if they stay very long." groaned Lambert.

"I dispatched Hugh and Stephanus to Hornu with news of your return My Lord."

"Thank you Luitbert. I had planned to spend the night in Mons as guest of the Bishop, but I know now that I have another hours ride to my castle." He spoke to Milo "Ride to Mons and have a dozen fresh horses ready for my use when we arrive."

Milo gave a salute of acknowledgement and rode away at a gallop.

Less than an hour later the patrol reached Mons. The Bishop and his company, the leading citizens of Mons and many of his people met them. Lambert got through the annual ceremonies as quickly as he could. He apologized to the Bishop and the First Citizen for having to leave so soon, bade Reginar join him and left for Hornu Castle. The Viking treasures were to follow with ten mounted guards. They covered the six miles to Hornu in a little over half an hour.

 

 The tower guard had the bridge down and the gates opened. The courtyard seemed to be overflowing with the Dukes men. He and Reginar rode straight to the keep and turned their horses over to the waiting grooms.

His beloved Countess met them in the entrance hall, her face radiant. She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him. He noticed that she wrinkled her nose as she released him.

"Forgive me my love; I did not take the time to wash away the dust and dirt of the patrol in Mons. We rushed here as soon as we heard that visitors had arrived."

"Never mind my dear. You are more than welcome, dirt and all. I've been at my wit's end trying to see to our guest's needs. Now that you have returned I gladly leave the hosting to you." She turned to Lambert's personal servant and asked "Is the Counts bath prepared?

"You never cease to amaze me. How did you know I wouldn't tarry in Mons for even a bath?"

The Countess smiled as her Count followed the servant away. After Lambert had cleansed himself from head to toe, he was rinsed with scented water and dressed befitting he who would meet Duke Charles. A maidservant had delivered word at the chamber door that all were gathered in Great Hall for a banquet to welcome him home.

He entered the hall and was ushered to the seat of honor. He noted that the Duke and Duchess were seated to his right and with them was the great Lady that Luitbert had told him about. Something about her was familiar, but he couldn't recall where he had seen her before. To his left were, of course, his wife and Reginar. Seated at the side tables were the knights of the Duke's company and opposite were the knights of Hornu Castle. All were seated in their order of rank. Some were with their ladies. He looked to the galleries and saw that they were filled with the servants and soldiers of the castle as well as other men and women that he assumed were in the service of the Dukes party. A page stood behind each of the guests seated at the tables.

The Duke rose to his feet and the chatter and movement in the hall ceased.  "The Countess has graciously granted me the honor of extending welcome to the Count on his return from the northern frontier, bravely defending all from the enemy of the far north beyond the sea…." He droned on and on for several minutes.

Lambert leaned to the left and whispered to the Countess "If he continues much longer we'll all starve to death. I'm famished." He noticed a sharp tug on the Duke's tunic delivered by the Duchess.

The Duke paused "---so in conclusion let us all bid our Count welcome."

The hall echoed with hand claps, foot stomps and cheers as the servants from the kitchen arrived with huge trays piled high with food. For meat there was pork, beef and fowl. There were boiled vegetables, fresh fruits, nuts and breads. Two salt cellars were placed before the Count. He passed one to the Duke for him and his party and the other he used and passed to his left.

After the pages had served the wine he turned to the Duke "I am truly sorry that I was not present to welcome you on your arrival." He then looked toward the Duchess and added "I now welcome you both and the Lady.

The Duke laughed "Thank you; and the Lady is our daughter Gerberga that I have recently made the Duchess of Brabant."

Lambert laughed also as he spoke to her "I knew that I should know you, but I haven’t seen you since you were a girl of twelve or thirteen. You are now a very beautiful Lady.

Gerberga blushed and thanked him.

Lambert spoke again to Duke Charles. "Your Highness, the message that I received from you in the field sounded as though there is some urgent matter for us to discuss?"

"Please! You don't need to address me so formally. Just call me Charles and I will feel a lot more comfortable in your presence. As to the matter that I wish to speak to you about, let's leave that for the morrow."

"Very good, I will call you Charles and will look forward to a discussion of your concerns after we break our fast of this night. Is our banquet to your liking?"

"Excellent! The food is still hot in spite of my long windedness. Sorry if I kept you too long from your meal. Once I get started talking it takes my wife to shut me up." He glanced at the Duchess smiling and was rewarded in kind.

"I hope your other children are in good spirits and health." commented Lambert to Duchess Bonne.

"Thank you, yes. Our son Otto is attending to some matters of Lorraine for his father and Gerberga's younger sister, Ermengarde, is at home with her tutor and is fast becoming the Lady. She's almost sixteen now."

A servant interrupted by placing a roasted pheasant before them. "Ah, that looks delightful." cried the Duke grabbing a leg and twisting it off the bird.

Charles spoke to Lambert, "The entertainment was arranged by me. Tonight's troupe has been in Mons for the past three days awaiting your return." He clapped and five brightly attired tumblers emerged from the entrance door. All present were thrilled by their feats of skill and daring. As they completed the act, Charles' jester appeared with a great bear on a chain. The bear walked on his hind legs and rhythmically beat his forepaws together as though he was applauding the tumbling act. The jester began to beat on a drum and the bear danced to its sound twirling about in human fashion. As the drum stopped, the bear applauded his own act and the hall was filled with laughter. The next act was a group of young girls who danced to the music of a lute played by a man dressed as a minstrel. After the dancers left the floor the minstrel sang a song about Charlemagne's great battles followed by another songs of heroes of the past until Charles stood and called for an ending of the entertainment, wishing all a good night. 

In the bedchamber, Lambert told his wife that Charles had put him off 'til the morrow when he asked his reason for coming to Hornu Castle and then asked " Have you any idea what this matter is that Charles wants to discuss?"

"From what Duchess Bonne has told me, I'm sure he is going to propose marriage between our son and Gerberga."

"What? That would mean that our young Lambert would be the Duke of Brabant! Are you sure?"

"As sure as one can be.  Bonne wields the scepter in that family."

"Then we must send for Lambert. I will not decide a thing like that for him." And then he added "But if he is in his right mind he will not mind a marriage to a beauty like Gerberga, Dukedom or no."

"I sent a message to Lovayne to tell Lambert to come to Hornu several days ago. He is to arrive on the morrow.

"Then I will ride as far as Mons and send word to the Northern Outpost for him to stop and meet me there. He has need to know of this before he arrives."

Lambert mused "Imagine that, a Duke."

 

          

 

In Lovayne, the day dawned clear as Lambert the Younger mounted to leave for Hornu Castle. The message from his mother had said that there was no emergency but she wanted him to come and be with her and his father while Duke Charles and his party were there. He wondered about the Duke's unannounced visit. Did it mean perhaps there was trouble brewing? The Duke still begrudged Hugh Capet the crown of France. Old Charles had a large following and could, if he so desired, man an army of many thousands to take the crown away from Hugh. He had always been a man of negotiations and appeasement; but then had he not been persuaded by Count Lambert and Count Reginar to take the city of Rheims to punish his lifelong friend "The Bishop of Rheims" when he turned on him in favor of Hugh Capet as King of France. Other lives were precious to Charles; yet a man could change if pushed hard enough by the right persons.

As he road along the high road he looked behind to see if all in his company were keeping together. The cattle tethered to the carts loaded with pigs, chickens, sheep and dried foods slowed the travel. Youths of the herdsman's family had to constantly prod the cattle to keep them moving. Lambert was sure that more foodstuffs would be needed at Hornu to feed such a large group. He wondered if the Duke's officers had thought to bring provisions with them. Feeding a hundred extra mouths would tax almost any castle's ability.

The group prodded on through the day and stopped at nightfall in Nijvel. He purchased bread and cheese from the villagers for their evening meal; and gave orders to the watch to have everyone up and ready to travel at the following dawning.

The next morning he felt restless and anxious to reach Hornu Castle. He divided his men into two detachments. One detachment was to remain behind and follow with the carts and the other to ride at a much faster pace with him. That way he would reach Mons before noon and the carts would reach the castle by nightfall.

He used the technique that his father had taught him to use whenever distance had to be covered quickly. The horses were ridden alternately at gallop and walking gaits. The milestones fast slipped by, and soon they reached the northern outpost of Mons.

Roger, in charge of the guard, rode out to meet them. He saluted and wheeled his mount to ride beside Lambert. "Sire, your father awaits your arrival in Mons. He said he would be somewhere around the market place talking with the merchants." 

As soon as Lambert reached Mons, he left his men at the gates and rode directly to the central market place. He dismounted and handed the reins to one of the horse-holders. In the market he had not far to look before he saw his father talking to Henry. Henry had accompanied him in a great deal of his youthful mischief. He had married the daughter of a merchant in Mons and now ran one of the market's largest shops. He ran to embrace his father and Henry in turn. Henry's wife rushed out from the back of the shop accompanied by their son Phillip. She had grown plump since he saw her last but was just as beautiful as ever. He noted that there was another child on the way.

Count Lambert, the elder, excused himself. "Catch up on each other's news while I have another word with Sol before we leave for Hornu." Sol was short for Solomon, a Jewish merchant that he used to dispose of goods gleaned on patrol from the Vikings. Sol traded as far away, in the west, as Rouen and as far south as Marseilles. The Vikings were making them both rich.

When the count returned a few minutes later, Henry asked "How long will Lambert be with you at the castle?"

Not wanting to go into the 'why and when's' Count Lambert replied 'I'm not sure exactly, but there will be time enough for you and Lambert's other friends to get together before he is away once more."

He took his son's arm and they walked back to where the horses were held. Six castle guards came almost at once without being called. Joceline, in charge of the castle strong room was one of them. Lambert the Younger knew that some of the castle's treasure had been brought to the market for Sol.

When they got to the city gates the Count had his guards ride a short distance ahead and those with his son to follow a distance behind. This would put the guards out of earshot while he talked to Lambert about the proposed marriage.

Once they were underway he spoke. He had rehearsed the way he would breach the subject a dozen times, each time changing his mind, trying it out a different way. No way seemed right. "How would you like to be the Duke of Brabant, Son?" he blurted. Then thought "By all that's holy, that wasn't any of the ways that I rehearsed."  

Thinking it was a part of one of his father's jokes he laughed. "Very much. What's the punch line?" Then looking at his father's face he sobered and said "You aren't jesting are you Father?"

"I've never been more serious in my life. This morning Duke Charles proposed that you should marry his daughter, Gerberga, who is now the Duchess of Brabant."

"What?" shouted his son, me marry that knobby kneed, skinny daughter of the Duke?"

The guards couldn't be far enough ahead or behind to be out of earshot of such an explosive response. It would be lucky if he wasn't heard in Mons and Hornu.

"Not so loud, please."

"But Father no dukedom could be worth being married to someone like her. She's spiteful and mean as well as ugly."

"You remember her as she was. She has grown-up since then. I think you will like her now."

"Never!" replied Lambert.

They rode the rest of the way to Hornu in silence. Count Lambert couldn't wait to see the reaction on his son's face when he met Gerberga, but it would be worth the wait. He chuckled at the thought and his son looked toward him in askance. He didn't offer an explanation.

 

Gerberga sat on the bench in the grotto set in the wall of the castle garden. It was a private place where she remembered coming before as a child of twelve or thirteen but feeling a lot older. From this bench she had been able to spy on Lambert and his friend Henry. She remembered how much she hated him for not allowing her to tag along and enjoy the company of adults. He and Henry were almost nineteen and considered her far too young to have around them. They didn't seem to realize that five years difference in the age of a man and woman made no difference at all. Her father was twenty years older than her mother and that was a perfect age difference. He had called her a brat and told her to go play with her dolls. Oh how she hated him. She watched their every move and everything that they did that was wrong, she related to the Countess. Such as the time they pulled long stemmed roses to throw at one of the castle cats like spears, pretending to be hunting bears. They were the ones being childish she thought.

She looked now at the fall roses and could smell their fragrance. If he had given her the roses instead of throwing them at the cat, she might have told him she loved him. But it wasn't until much later that she had known that. At the time she had truly hated him.

Looking across the garden she saw her father leaning over to smell a clump of tiny blue flowers. She did love him. He had suggested marriage for her several times since she was sixteen, but each time she had rejected the prospective groom. He had bowed to her wishes. She had not dared tell him of her unreasoning love for Lambert. Upon reaching eighteen, he had given her the Duchy of Brabant, making her the Duchess. As a boon he asked "Now who would you choose to be your Duke?"

She didn't have to think about it. She knew her choice. "Lambert of Hornu." was her instant response.

"Lambert? But he's beneath your station. I meant which Duke's son would you choose?"

"How can you say he's beneath my station? Isn't Mother the daughter of one of your knights? Lambert is at least a count's son."

"Well, one of the reasons for rejecting me as King of France was because I married your mother. Marriage beneath one's station is frowned upon."

"And to think those Dukes of France call themselves Frenchmen. Even if you don't wear the crown you are better than all of them put together and that includes that pompous Hugh Capet."

"All right. I'll see if a marriage can be arranged with your Lambert."

Gleefully she kissed him. "I love you. I love you. I love you." she sang.

She looked out into the garden again to see him approaching the grotto. "Had the Count accepted his proposal?" She didn't want to ask the question aloud for fear that she would find that another had already been chosen for Lambert.

Instead she said "Good morning Father. It's a beautiful day isn't it?"

"There you are. Your mother said you were in the garden, but I assumed she was mistaken when I didn't see you."

When he didn't say anything about his conversation with the Count she raised her eyebrows and asked "Well?"

"Well what? Oh that---He says that Lambert is free to choose his own bride, that he cannot make the choice for him. I guess the trait runs in the family. He is a descendant of Charlemagne the same as you and me. Our independence will be our downfall. At any rate Lambert will arrive this day and I will ask him personally."

"I heard horses only moments ago. Perhaps he has arrived already. Oh please go and see Father."

The Duke turned and made his way back to the keep. Gerberga put her head in her hands and sobbed "Please God, let him say yes." Then she cried.

Charles had entered the keep through the side entrance. He heard the two Lamberts as they came through the entry hall. Their voices echoed so much that he couldn't make out the words spoken, but as they neared he heard the Count demand "At least meet her." Before they saw him standing in the doorway.

The Count gestured "My good Charles, Lambert has arrived." And turning toward his son, "Charles has a proposition for you to consider, my Son."

Lambert's manner was so stiff that Charles knew he had missed something of the conversation between these two that the Count thought he had heard.

Young Lambert bowed and greeted him. "I'm glad to see you again My Lord.”

"Have you discussed my proposal with him?" asked the Duke.

"I think it would be best if my son and your daughter got reacquainted before any formal decision is made on either side. Both have changed a great deal since they knew each other."

"You may be right. Gerberga is in the garden." he spoke then to the younger Lambert, "Why don't you go into the garden and pay your respects?"

"I'll accompany him." the Count frowned.

"Please don't bother. I know the Countess has anxiously awaited your return. She has seen so little of you and all on my account I fear. I believe she is in the great hall with Bonne getting the place back in shape after last night's feast."

Charles couldn't know what he was asking him to miss seeing. "Son I'll be with your mother in the great hall. Don't forget to come in to see her a little later." He gave his son a slap on the back. "Now go meet Gerberga." and then watched as Lambert left.

Gerberga waited none to patiently for her father to return. She paced slowly up and down in front of the grotto and had her back to Lambert when he reached her. As she turned Lambert stopped dead in his tracks. His jaw dropped and his eyes widened. Gerberga was astounded by the look of him. He resembled the court fool of the palace in Paris. Had something happened to befuddle his mind that no one had dared tell her about?

She gave him a perfunctory curtsey and timidly asked "Are you Lambert?"

Lambert remained spellbound.

"I am waiting for my father." she ventured, but still got no response. "My name is Gerberga." and then again asked "Are you Lambert?"

"You are beautiful" he sputtered.

"He is demented, the poor dear." she thought.

Lambert managed a smile on his second attempt. He knew he was awake but felt he must be dreaming. With a great effort he composed himself and spoke "Yes. I am Lambert and am very glad to see you again. I am sorry; I don't know how to explain my reaction just now. You are just so different from what I expected. I must have seemed some sort of simpleton."

"Well, I did sort of wonder." she sighed "but I am glad you aren't."

They both laughed and he realized that something was happening inside him that he couldn't understand. He had never felt so peculiar before. "Come let us sit on the bench and talk." He took her hand and a tingle went through his entire body. He knew from her expression that she had experienced a similar reaction. "My father says you are now the Duchess of Brabant."

"And I've never even seen Brabant." she added and they both laughed again.

"You will like it there. It is a very beautiful part of the country."

She smiled and asked "Do you like living in Lovayne? I've heard that the people are quite different."

Gerberga had put him on firm ground by asking him about Lovayne. He now felt more at ease. He told her about the mixture of the many tribes in the countdom and she truly laughed when he tried to mimic the way some of them spoke. He described some of the citizens of the town and also the surfs on the manors surrounding the town.

One, Richard the innkeeper, he described in greater detail than all the others. Richard had a bristling black beard, ruddy   cheeks and eyes that were always filled with mirth. Anyone meeting Richard for the first time within minutes felt that they had known him for a long time. He always created a festival atmosphere in the inn even when only three or four guests where present. His jovial manor was catching causing the serving wenches to be more friendly and tolerant where the guests were concerned. As a result the inn was busy from morn' 'til night.

Then there was Godfrey, squire of the largest manor about. He was the opposite of Richard in every way. His face was gaunt with deep set piercing eyes. He shouted at the children in the streets when he came into the town, causing them to scurry to their mother's skirts for protection as he passed. He was gruff toward the merchants accusing them of overcharging him, which most of them did. No one liked Godfrey.

"Is he not respectful to you?" asked Gerberga.

He told her that when Godfrey was in his presents he was all sweetness and fawned like a puppy.

Gerberga laughed, You make it all seem so real. I think I know the people there already and I like them. ---- Even Godfrey."

Lambert realized that the afternoon was almost gone and he said, "I haven't seen my mother since I got here. She will be hurt if I don't go in to see her." He held her hand again, "Come." and they walked hand in hand toward the keep. Lambert mused. For some reason the colors of the flowers seemed brighter and the fragrance sweeter. Life was wonderful.

  

Duke Charles and his father sat with Duchess Bonne and his mother at a small table located near the door to the kitchen. This portion of the great hall had been screened off to make it a small room on its own. Before each was a steaming cup of a honey sweetened spice-drink which they sipped with obvious enjoyment. The Duke and Count had found the spice among the treasures brought back from the north. Lambert thought it was some sort of perfume, but the Duke knew that it was a spice called cinnamon from the same far away country that had made the silk fabrics. The Duchess and Countess were eager to see how the drink made from it would taste. The kitchen provided the boiling water, honey and cups and the Duke prepared the drinks himself.

They all turned to look as Lambert and Gerberga entered the hall. Just seeing the pair was enough to let them know that plans for the wedding would be needed. The Duke sighed with relief, but Lambert gave him an 'I told you so.' look and a nod.

There would be a lot of discussions over the next few days. Many questions had to have answers. When would the wedding be? Who should be invited? Who should be left off of the guest list?

Duke Charles, wanting everything done correctly for the daughter of 'The Rightful King of France', had his scribe draw-up a parchment charter of marriage intent. In it he promised as dowry the Dukedom of Brabant along with the consideration of monies. He requested in return the ceremonial Pledging of Homage and Swearing of Fealty before the Nobles of his choosing.

Once this parchment was signed and witnessed, the more difficult problem of which nobles were to be invited to the wedding, and which were not, had to be considered.

Charles offered, "Perhaps we had better start with the easy choices, your brother, The Count of Hainault and his son Reginar, my son Odo." Then he rambled, "of course you know his true name is Otto. Gerberga called him Odo when she was first learning to talk, because she couldn't say Otto. Somehow that way of saying his name stuck and we have always referred to him thusly." Then he continued with his original train of thought " we shall invite the Counts and Countesses of Tournai and Jumet the Bishop of Namur, the Count and Countess of Namur, the Duke and Duchess of Flanders"----

"But Charles, there is no Duchess of Flanders, don't you remember that Ogive died?" interrupted Bonne.

"He has remarried. The new Duchess is Eleanora, daughter of Richard II 'The Good'. Surely you heard about the marriage even though we didn't receive an invitation." commented Lambert. Baldwin knew of your dislike for the Normans and wished to avoid the insult of your refusal to attend the wedding."

To change the subject Lambert suggested "Should we invite the Duke and Duchess of Liege?"

"Heaven forbid!" exploded Charles "That Duke is the lapdog of Nutger, the Bishop of liege. He's as big a power grabber as Attilla the Hun. I've heard it said 'Liege can thank God for Nutger and thank Nutger for everything else.' If he has his way he'll be Pope. Let's let him continue to look to the east to extend his See. I don't wish his interference in the matters of Lorraine."

There was a sudden peal of feminine laughter in the Great Hall. They all looked up to see Gerberga followed by Lambert and Reginar. Gerberga carried one of the bolts of white silk. "Mother, can I have my wedding gown made from this?' she asked.

 Bonne looked questioningly toward Count Lambert who nodded his assent and then answered, "You may of course, but the wedding will be in winter. You would freeze in a gown made from that thin material."

"Oh piffle Mother. I can wear wool beneath. That will keep me warm."

"Very well, silk you shall wear."

Gerberga draped the silk over her shoulder and nestled her cheek against it. "It's so soft and smooth." she cried. When can we start the gown Mother?"

"We'll get it underway after other matters have been settled. Now run along. I will get together with you later. Right now we are busy."

Gerberga looked disappointed for only a moment then took Lambert's hand and pulled him toward the kitchen "Come let's drink a cup of that spice that smells so good."

"Don't take the cloth into the kitchen." scolded Bonne "You may get grease on it. Leave it with me."

After handing over the silk to her mother the three continued into the kitchen.

Charles looked after the trio. "They are such children in so many ways.---Now where we? Oh yes, Baldwin Fairbeard and" he paused again "What did you say the name of his new Duchess was?"

"Eleanora." replied Bonne.

"Right, and the Counts of Flandreasts, Rodanensis, Glandendensis, Courtracensis, Iserae and Menpicus. That will complete the Flanders invitations." Then he continued "The Duke and Counts of Cambria can be invited. The Bishop of Cambria is of the same ilk as Nutger, but he seems to know his place and keeps to it."

"Should the wedding be held at your castle at Valenciennes?" inquired Lambert "or at the abbey of Saint Waudru in Mons?"

"If the wedding is held in Valenciennes there may not be accommodations for early arrivals and late departures, but there would be sufficient space in Mons and here at Hornu." Charles said as he weighed the question.

"Then let's plan on having the wedding in the Abbey." said Bonne "Mons is more centrally located for everyone concerned anyway."

"Shall we set the date for the wedding for the first Sunday in December?" asked Bonne.

"But that's only five weeks hence!" protested the Countess. "Can all preparations be made in so short a time?"

"Lambert, we will leave on the morrow for my castle at Valenciennes and send messengers with the invitations to Flanders and Cambria. I'll also see Count Reginar lV to let him know of our plans. Better yet," continued Charles" we can let Young Reginar inform him. I'll leave notification of those from Brabant, Hainault and Namur to you. Also contact the Bishop at Saint Waudru and arrange for him to conduct the ceremony."

With an importune sound in her voice the Countess ventured "I'll make all the arrangements for the wedding feast. I can leave the arrangements for entertainment to our son. Everything will be in readiness in time for the wedding."

Lambert pulled the cord on the servant's bell and moments later a maid appeared from the kitchen doorway. "Nannette, have the scribe come with his apprentice and parchments. Tell him to hurry."

"Yes, My Lord.' She said as she dashed across the great hall toward the scribe's quarters. "And tell him to hurry." she reminded herself aloud as she ran.

Bonne looked at the Countess. "Will you be able to get everything in readiness for the wedding on your own? You seemed a bit worried about the shortage of time."

"I can but try." the countess replied apprehensively. "The more I think about the preparations, the more I realize the number of things that have to be done."

"Then let's have Gerberga remain here with you to help. I can have her gown made at Valenciennes without her. She is only slightly thinner than I am, so there should be no problems."

"I am so glad you have offered her help. I want everything to be to her liking. After all it's her wedding. Will you ask her now?"

"There will be no need. She will be only too happy to remain behind so that she will be near Lambert." replied Bonne.

"But Lambert will not be here. He has to return to Lovayne and make arrangements to be away from there for a longer period of time. I heard him talking to his father about it earlier today."

"He'll not be in Lovayne very long, I venture, if he knows that Gerberga is here in Hornu."

"True, I hope his horse can stand so hard a ride as I fear it will receive."

The scribe scurried into the room followed by a youth. "My Lord?" he questioned.

"The Duke will have you draw up the invitations to a wedding. There will be a great number, John. Have you anyone that can assist you, other than your apprentice?"

The scribe turned to the Duke and asked "Will the invitations be in Latin or French Your Highness?"

"French. Many of the lesser Counts may not have our command of the Latin tongue."

"In that case my wife and daughter will be capable of assisting me."

"What?" exclaimed the Duke "Women able to write?"

"Yes Your Highness. They wanted to learn and I have found that their skill has come to equal my own."

"Amazing! Fancy that! Women knowing how to write. Come, let us go to my chambers and I'll give you a list of guests and tell you what to write." said the Duke as he stood and lead the way. "You'll have to write much of the night, I fear, as there are so many parchments to prepare. Have you sufficient writing materials? I have some that---" and the duke's voice went out of earshot as they left the Great Hall.

"I hope he remembers to have invitations to some of the northern and eastern Counts written in Flemish. They may be offended if the invitation is in French; although I'm sure they read French well enough."

 Bonne suddenly jumped to her feet. "Heavens above!" she shrieked placing her hand over her mouth.

"What's wrong?" asked the Countess perturbed by Bonne's outburst.

"We've forgotten something. When will the Betrothal Ceremony be held if we are leaving tomorrow?"

The countess looked at Lambert and when he didn't say anything, she interjected "Go to Charles and tell him I am getting the priest, our son and his daughter and then bring him to the chapel for the Betrothal Ceremony." She pulled the bell cord urgently several times and before she finished pulling the maid, Nannette, came running in.

"Yes, My Lady?"

"Is Duchess Gerberga and Lambert still in the kitchen?"

"Yes My Lady, they are eating."

"Then go and send them in here and then find the priest and have him meet us in the chapel. Tell him to hurry. We've got to have the Betrothal Ceremony."

Nannette turned and ran back toward the kitchen muttering "Hurry, hurry, hurry, always hurry. A body gets tired of hurry all the time."

"Nannette!" sharply chastised the Countess.

"Yes My Lady." responded Nannette as she disappeared through the kitchen door.

Moments later Gerberga, Lambert and Reginar appeared with questioning looks on their faces.

Bonne spoke "Gerberga, your father and I will be leaving early tomorrow morning for Valenciennes, so we will hold the Betrothal Ceremony in the chapel right away tonight."

"Tonight? We leave tomorrow? So soon?" cried Gerberga.

"Your father and I are leaving. You will remain here to help with the wedding preparations."

"Oh." sighed Gerberga with obvious relief.

"Come let's be on our way to the chapel or your father and the Count will be there with the priest and he will have no betrothal to bless." snapped the Countess as she pushed Lambert toward the door.

 

In the chapel, after the priest had intoned suitable prayers, he looked at the two before him and said. "Now give your vows."

"What are we supposed to say?" whispered Gerberga.

The priest looked at Lambert and said "Tell her you will take her for your wife." and then to Gerberga "And you will take him for your husband."

They awkwardly exchanged their promises. "I will take you for my wife.

 "And I will take you for my husband."

"Not very formal, but good enough." stated the priest. He took from his robe a small silver box and said "This contains dust from the sepulcher of our Lord. Place your hands on it and swear to your promise."

Lambert and Gerberga each placed a hand on the box and said "I swear."

The priest looked toward the Duke and Duchess and the Count and Countess and asked "Do you consent to this union?" They answered together "We do."

He extended the silver box containing the Holy Relic. They each in turn swore over the relic.

The priest then smiled at the pair and stated "Remember you are not wed yet. God bless you both."

 

 The following morning dawned bright and clear. The Duke's retinue was ready to leave before mid-morning. The Count, Countess, Young Lambert and Gerberga saw them off from the courtyard. Duchess Bonne rode in a cart pulled by two horses. Duke Charles rode a beautiful black stallion. Duke Charles mounted with obvious discomfort. He seemed too old to sit a horse. After the company had said their goodbyes and rode out of the gates, the Count said to no one in particular "Charles seems so old yet he isn't very much older than I am."

"His health isn't good." stated Gerberga. Each month he seems feebler. Mother will have him in the cart as soon as they are out of the sight of Hornu. He insisted on leaving on horseback for appearance sake."

"Come; let us get on with plans for the wedding. Time is wasting." ordered the Countess as she turned to re-enter the keep. 

 

Mons was a beautiful walled city on a knoll between the Trouille and Haine rivers. It had grown around the abbey founded about 650 A.D. by Saint Waudru. She was the daughter of Gieselbert I Count in the Maasgau, Sister of Saint Lambert of Liege, wife of Vincent Madelga and mother of four children that all obtained Sainthood.

During the ninth century turret ramparts were built encircling the town. These protected the citizens of Mons from the numerous raids by the Vikings. It had been the capital of Hainault since the year 804.

Everyone in Mons was excited about the wedding taking place in the abbey. The streets were all swept clean, the houses were made to look newer and in the turret ramparts that encircled the city the stones were replaced that had been dislodged over the previous centuries. The bright banners of Mons were hung along the streets between the gates and the abbey. The inns had newly painted signs and the innkeepers had ordered foods and wines, from the merchants, suitable for the nobility. Their rooms were cleaned and new bedding obtained from the surrounding fiefs. The bed covers were washed and rinsed in fresh smelling water that was made by boiling evergreen boughs. The innkeepers knew that the nobles would not be accustomed to fleas, lice, spiders and rats so sulfur was burned in every room and chamber to kill any creature that might disturb their guests. Everything was in readiness for a Royal Wedding. Count Lambert made almost daily journeys into Mons, just to be sure that nothing was overlooked. The few weeks before the wedding had gone by quickly.

Young Lambert intended to be in Lovayne for only one week, but had remained there for over two. He sent a message after the first week to state that his delay was unavoidable. On his return he explained to his father that when he arrived at the Castle of Lovayne, he saw it as Gerberga would on her arrival. It was austere with only the comforts required by soldiers. It was not a very appealing sight for the eyes of his new bride. He had gathered craftsmen merchants from the city and presented them with the problem. After hearing their suggestions he had given his orders for renovation, waited for the transformation to get under way and only then had left for Hornu. "The castle isn't like the palace of Charlemagne, but I know that Gerberga will like it better than she would have if I had left it as it was. There are so many workers that it looks like an anthill. At least the gardens had been kept in order. If they had not, it would have been too late to do anything about them"

"I'm glad you saw to the gardens. They were planted by your Great Great, Great Grandmother, Albrada, when she was Duchess of Lorraine almost one hundred years ago. Since then the garden has been maintained by the family. Did you know that Saint Waudru was born in that very castle? Of course the outer wall and many of the structures inside the bailey were made of wood, instead of stone, back in the seventh century. So much has changed since then."

"Yes Father, I must have heard that story a thousand times, but I didn't know about the gardens. I guess I just had them kept in good shape because they are so beautiful."

"There is so little time left before the wedding and your mother wanted you to make all the arrangements for the entertainment at the wedding feast. Will you be able to do that for her?" asked the Count.

"I have a troupe of entertainers coming from Lovayne for the entertainment of the citizens of Mons for their celebrations in the market place, and the entertainers of Mons will be able to entertain at the castle. That is if it meets with Mother's approval."

The Count nodded, "That's good work Son. Each will have someone new to entertain them. Our guests will not have seen the Mons troupe. You've used your head with these arrangements."

 

 

Reginar lV was surprised and pleased when his son delivered the invitation from the "Duke and Duchess of Lorraine. Surprised at first and then suspicious after giving a little thought to the turn of events. He spoke of his suspicions to his son, "Regi, did the Duke say anything about his feelings concerning Hugh Capet?"

"Say anything! He becomes livid at the mention of the man's name. He still considers himself the rightful King of France." The Count pressed further, "Did he speak about taking the crown by force?"

"Not in so many words, but I dare say he'd not discourage the suggestion. Why do you ask?"

"By this marriage he is forming a blood-tie between his line and the strongest family of the north, and may assume that your Uncle Lambert will form an army for that purpose. As the Count of both Mons and Lovayne, his influence has greater breadth than even Young Lambert will have as Duke of Brabant. My brother has the love of all the peoples of Hainault and Brabant. They would flock to his banner if he decided to back Charles for the Crown. Don't you agree?"

"That may well be true Father. I know that I would follow him through Hell if he asked me to."

Reginar lV chuckled, "You do almost that every fall on patrol without his asking."

Young Reginar looked thoughtful. "I don't really think Duke Charles is well enough to be considering any move to take the Crown. He can't even sit his horse any more."

"Whether he is or not, Hugh Capet is bound to believe that he is, after he hears about this wedding. Charles had better watch his back. From now on he will be marked for assassination. Hugh is too weak to risk a northern attack."

Reginar was alarmed. "Father, you must warn him. He may not suspect that his life is in danger. I truly believe that he only has Gerberga's happiness in mind."

"I'll talk to him about the danger, but he may think that I am trying to give him needless worry. If so, I won't be in his favor for a while. I tried to warn him about Hugh Capet over three years ago and he failed to heed my counsel. Instead Charles talked to and took the advice of Adalbero. I knew that Charles would consult him, but never dreamed that he was against Charles. I think some times I should have administered hemlock to Adolbero before talking to Charles."

"Father, you wouldn't have!" cried Regi.

"Desperate measures are required at times. Perhaps having Charles as King would in some way assure Lorraine's return to French rule. I would have gone to any extreme to accomplish that.  We must come under a strong united crown, but there is little chance of that in the near future." moaned Count Reginar. "For now, we are on our own. Lorraine is as independent as we would be if Germany did not exist. The Low Countries have the potential to be a very important part of the world. I think we can look forward to becoming a jewel to be fought over among the greater powers of the world in the not too distant future. Control of this area is going to be of utmost importance.  "I'd much rather that we would be French rather than Spanish of German." Be that as it may, we've got a wedding to think about now. Let's think of what we can bring with us to Hornu as our wedding gift."

"Father, do you remember the golden oil lamps that were recovered on the spring patrol?" asked Regi.

"Do you mean those that were covered with the exquisite faceted design?"

"Those are the ones." answered Regi, "Wouldn't they make a nice wedding present?"

"They would brighten that drab castle at Lovayne. Lamps it shall be, and also the serving tray and goblets of the same design."

 

Count Reginar lV, and his son, departed from their castle in Tournai at dawn on the Friday before the wedding. They went south to Valenciennes to travel from there to Hornu in the company of Duke Charles and Duchess Bonne. Normally, from Valenciennes, the journey took only three hours, this day they rode slowly. The fall rains had softened the roadway and the horse and cart traffic had formed ruts and holes. The wagon, which the Duke had prepared for the wedding procession rocked and swayed dangerously because of its heavy canopy. About noon they arrived outside the gates of Hornu castle. The wagon driver had blasted a ram's horn to herald the arrival.

As they entered the outer bailey, they saw Gerberga racing across from the inner bailey. Count Lambert stood at the inner gate watching her as he waited.

"Did you get the gown finished Mother?" she asked breathlessly as she reached the wagon.

"Gerberga, can't you have the courtesy to greet your father before you ask about the gown?" admonished Bonne.

Gerberga looked at her father and apologized, "I'm sorry Father." Then without pause she asked her mother again, "Did you?"

"Yes I did."

Gerberga climbed up on the wagon to ride back to the keep beside her mother. The men dismounted as they reached Count Lambert at the inner gate to walk with him.

The Countess awaited them at the keep door. "Did you get the wedding gown finished?" she asked.

 Bonne laughed. "Yes I did. Gerberga will look lovely in it. She can try it on as soon as we are refreshed. That wagon was never designed for a long journey. Every muscle in my body protested punishment the entire trip."

 

 

 

Duke Baldwin of Flanders and his retinue arrived at Rueulx on the Wednesday eve. Their tents were erected just south of the village and made it look like a veritable tent city. Upon receiving the invitation to the wedding, Baldwin had inquired of the messenger if any other invitations were to be delivered within his Dukedom. The messenger informed him that he sought the Duke's permission to deliver invitations to the Counts of each pagi in Flanders. Baldwin gave permission and then told the messenger to inform each Count that they were to arrive in Ghent on the Wednesday prior to the wedding and that they would all journey together to Mons.

On Wednesday morning the Duke and Duchess along with six Counts, their families, attendants and eight to twelve knights for each Count departed from Ghent. There were over a dozen wagons in which the Duchess and Countesses rode together with their children. The banners of the counts proceeded by the banner of the Duke led the procession. To those that saw them along the route it seemed to be the retinue of a great king. Before nightfall on Thursday they reached the Countdom of Hainault and stopped outside the village of Ellezeiles. On Friday they continued on to Zinnik. Baldwin sent messengers ahead to Mons and Hornu that the Duke and Counts of Flanders would arrive in Mons before noon on the following day. A list of the members of the party accompanied the messenger in order that accommodations would be prepared.

 

  

The gate guards at Hornu admitted the messenger form Duke Baldwin well after dark and sent word to Count Lambert. Lambert and the Countess were still in the great hall. Duke Charles, Duchess Bonne, Lambert's brother, Reginar lV and his son Regi had much to talk about and had lingered over goblets of wine. The messenger was ushered in and handed Count Lambert a parchment.

After reading, Count Lambert leaped to his feet. "Holy Mother, I expected unanimous acceptance in Lorraine, but would you believe there is total acceptance in Flanders the Duke and all of his Counts with their families arrive tomorrow morning in Mons."  He turned to the servant that brought the messenger, "See that this messenger has food and drink and put him in one of the spare chambers to rest for the night."

"We will all have to be in Mons to meet the Duke of Flanders on his arrival tomorrow" spoke Bonne.

Charles assented "We will all be up early so let us call it a night and retire to our chambers." He then added, "I wager they've all accepted just because Baldwin failed to invite me to his second marriage wedding."

"No matter," said Lambert, "their coming makes this wedding an even greater occasion than I anticipated."

Count Lambert had ridden out to the northern outpost of Mons to meet Duke Baldwin's group. Count Reginar accompanied him so that the welcome of both Mons and Hainault could be extended. The wait for the arrival was not long. In the distance they counted the seven banners of Flanders. Next they recognized the colors on the tunics of the knights of Flanders. Next they recognized the colors on the tunics of the knights at arms. The leading banner was that of the Duke of Flanders, black horizontal bars on a golden field. The sight was very impressive. With the honor guard of twenty knights of Hornu, they rode out to meet the Duke. The banners of Mons and Hainault led the guard.

Lambert and Reginar knew their cousin, Duke Baldwin, and his father before him, having met and even joined him on patrols of past years. They also knew several of his Counts. Ghent was located on the route that the patrols took when going to the northern coastal areas.

"Greetings Duke Baldwin of Flanders." shouted Count Reginar as they neared the Flanders group. "Welcome to Hainault."

"My greetings to you, my kinsman." responded Baldwin.

The nobles dismounted and clasped each other's arms in friendship. There was much clapping of hands on backs, inquiries as to health and families.

"Our wives await your arrival in Mons," said Lambert, "and I'm sure half the citizens of the city will be on hand to welcome you."

"Then let us be under way. Our wives and families are wagon sore and will be glad to reach your fair city. How much further do we have?" inquired Baldwin.

"We are only an hour outside the city walls." answered Reginar.

Many of the citizens of Mons had climbed the northern ramparts of the city's walls for a view of the procession from Flanders. They cheered as the column neared. The children in the wagons along with a few of the mothers waved in return, but the nobles and their knight's rode sedately through the city gates. Duke Charles, Duchess Bonne, the Bishop of Waudru and the First Citizen of Mons met the procession. Following the welcoming the Counts of the Pagi of Flanders were placed in the care of appointed hosts to accompany each group to their assigned accommodations. Duke Baldwin and Duchess Eleanora were to continue with Lambert and Reginar to stay in the Hornu Castle.

Hornu Castle was constructed as a fortified camp in the fourth century by the Romans fortified by Charlemagne in the eighth century and kept modernized by the Counts of Mons since. The keep was surrounded by thick walls between round towers. Pennon staffs projected form the twin gate towers. This wedding day dawned with a wintry chill in the air. Usually there was only the Mons pennon flying at the top of the center staff, but this December morning it was accompanied by the pennons of Lorraine, Lovayne, Hainault, Brabant, Namur, Cambria and Flanders. The outer bailey had tents of the visiting knights pitched around a central cook fire. A beef had roasted over it the previous evening to be eaten by the knights. Breads and vegetables had been brought out from the kitchen of the keep and served with wine. The Great Hall had only been large enough for the nobles and their families.

The wedding was set for the eleventh hour, so the squires of the knights were already polishing swords, shields and armor. The horses were being curry-combed in preparation for the ornate ceremonial bridles, reins, drapes and saddles. Each squire took great pride in the splendor of his knight.

 Before the ninth hour the procession of nobles left Hornu. Along the way to Mons there were groups of serfs awaiting the passing of the dazzling cortege.  They doffed their caps to the Dukes and Counts as they passed and then joined the procession to Mons. The villains of Jemappes, Guaregnon, Bossu and Dour were well represented along the roadside.  By the time the procession arrived before the gates of Mons the column of followers stretched behind for over a mile. There was a blare of trumpets from the gate towers to announce the arrival. The enclosed wagon followed Duke Charles. Duchess Bonne and Gerberga were inside. Gerberga would not be seen until after the ceremony of marriage and the investiture of Lambert as the Duke of Brabant.

From the chantry could be heard the Psalms of the first Sunday of Advent as Mass was coming to an end. Young Lambert was escorted into the Abby hall with Young Reginar as his groomsman. They were taken to the alter where they would kneel in prayers until the time of the arrival of the bride and Duke Charles. The hall was already filled with nobles and knights with their families. The higher ranking was toward the front of the hall. The front bench was vacant, having been reserved for the families of the bride and groom. Shortly they were ushered in and seated. Except for the hushed voices of the priests at prayers the hall was silent. The Bishop, with his attending priests entered quietly from the wing causing the air of expectancy to swell throughout the hall. Chanting monks entered from the opposite wing as the heads of the audience turned toward the rear main entrance. Lambert and Reginar had now taken their position before the Bishop to await the bride. There was a sound of oohs and aahs to herald Gerberga's entrance. She was escorted by Duke Charles and followed by their attendants. Lambert and Reginar could not resist turning to see the bridal procession. Lambert had not seen Gerberga since the previous evening. His breath caught in his throat on seeing her as such a vision of beauty. The silken gown made her seem to float down the isle. It was made in the formal layered Roman fashion. Her head was covered by a veil of thin white silk and was held in place by a circlet of gold set with jewels indicating her rank as Duchess. Around her waist was a girdle made of many pieces of gold; each was set with a good-luck stone__agate to guard against fever, sardonyx to protect against malaria and so on for many common maladies. In the clasp were great sapphires and rubies. Her pellisson was made of reddish violet silk lined with fine wool and fringed completely with ermine. From her shoulders was draped a mantle of silk and wool intricately embroidered and dyed purple. Her shoes were made of vermilion leather embroidered with gold threads. Duke Charles, in all his splendor and crown, enhanced the vision. 

After what seemed an eternity Gerberga was at Lambert's side and the Bishop intoned the Latin Collect, Epistle and Gospel of Saint Matthew. He then switched to French "We are gathered here this day to join Lambert, filius Lambert Count of Mons, filius Reginar II Count of Hainault and Gerberga, filia Charles Duke of Lorraine. If there be any man who knows of any reason why this union should not take place, let him speak or hereafter hold his peace."

 The Bishop, after a suitable pause, continued with the ceremony. After pronouncing the pair Man and Wife he blessed the union. "Let this woman be amiable as Rachel, wise as Rebecca, faithful as Sarah. Let her be sober through truth, venerable through modesty and wise through the teachings of Heaven."

Then "Agnus Dei" was chanted by the monks. Lambert advanced to the Alter and received, from the Bishop, the kiss of peace. He then transmitted the kiss to her. This completed the ceremony.

The nobles rose to their feet for the recession of the bride and groom, but the Bishop held up his hands to dissuade their action. "We will now, in the eyes of God and this host of nobles, perform the coronation of Lambert as Duke of Brabant."

There was an air of excitement as Duke Charles moved in front of Lambert and turned to face him.

Lambert knelt before him and Duke Charles spoke, "Lambert; are you willing to become completely my man?"

Lambert placed his hands between those of the Duke and answered, "I am willing. I promise on my faith that I will in future be faithful to you and will observe my homage to you completely against all persons, in good faith and without deceit."

The Bishop stepped forward carrying a golden chest and asked. "Are you willing to take an oath on the relics of the saints?"

Duke Charles withdrew a golden rod from his belt and held it over Lambert's head. "I, Charles Duke of Lorraine invest you, Lambert l Duke of Brabant."

Lambert l Duke of Brabant came to his feet and then he and Charles kissed. Charles said "I receive you and take you as my man and give you this kiss as a sign of faith, saving my right and that of others."

"The Bishop turned to the nobles in the hall and said "Now let us stand as Duke Lambert precedes you to Hornu Castle for the wedding feast, God bless you all."

Lambert turned to a smiling Gerberga and took her hand to go to their wedding wagon. The wagon canopy had been removed so that all would be able to view the couple as they proceeded to the gates of the city. They left the Abby followed by the Dukes and Counts, their families and all the knights and ladies in their wagons. There was a great cheering from the crowds of people that lined the streets waiting to get a glimpse of the new Duke and Duchess of Brabant. The couple waved to the people. Lambert had the driver pull the wagon near to the platform and greeted each performer by name. Then as the wagon preceded on toward the city gates the performers shouted after him as one voice, "Long live Duke Lambert." Over and over. The crowds in the market took up the chant. Over and over. The crowds in the market took up the chant.

Gerberga squeezed Lambert's arm. "You are really their Duke; I hadn't realized it fully until they started shouting that chant. They really love you, don't they?"

"And you are their Duchess. They will love you also, just you wait and see."

At the city gates the trumpets sounded and all the soldiers of Hainault and Mons were standing at attention on both sides of the road each wearing new tunics and all with brightly polished helmets and shields. Every twelfth soldier held a staff topped with the banner of Mons and Hainault. Seeing the roses of Mons on every tunic and banner Gerberga sighed, "It's like riding through a rose garden."

Lambert laughed. "Each carries a thorn in the shape of a sword or lance."

"What does it look like to see the soldiers of Brabant with the Red Lion of Brabant on their tunics." asked Gerberga.

"Most impressive I assure you. My men of Lovayne have red tunics with a horizontal silver bar across their chests. Standing shoulder to shoulder they form what seems to be a silver line across a wide red one to the enemy they face."

"I can't wait to see them. When can we leave for Lovayne?"

 "I'm not sure. The wedding feast celebration is to last several days. Father has a boar hunt scheduled for Wednesday."

"You don't want to go on a boar hunt do you?" asked Gerberga remembering the castle cat and the long stemmed roses used as spears of Henry and Lambert.

"You know that I don't." answered Lambert as he hugged her close.

Gerberga shivered and felt faint with love for him.

 

Trumpets on the gate tower announced their arrival at Hornu Castle. The castle guard was assembled just inside the castle's outer gate. Duke Lambert saw the tents that had been pitched inside the inner bailey were now in the outer bailey and their number had at least doubled. The inner bailey was more filled than it had been. The tents that had been there were now replaced by expansive canopies. These covered long tables piled high with food. To the far right he could see several cooking spits attended by serfs and their wives preparing roasts. Children were carrying wood for the fires.

After the last of the procession had entered the inner bailey, Lambert got out of the wedding wagon and assisted Gerberga. The guards threw open the doors of the keep to reveal the servants of the castle lined up on either side of the passage leading into the Great Hall. In the Great Hall there were two chairs of court on the Dias covered by bright drapes of red cloth where the wedding couple would be seated. Smaller chairs were also placed on either side of the court chairs for the parents. Two low tables were there for the food and drink that would be served. The great hearth, before the fireplace, was the only portion of the walls that wasn't filled by tables of by tables of food and wine. The floor was covered with fresh rushes and mint to protect against chill and odor. On the walls were hung great tapestries between the torches that lighted the hall.  

The couple were ushered to the dais and seated. Then their parents also took their seats. Dozens of servants scurried about bringing in cushioned stools for the nobles as they came into the great hall. A small area of the floor was kept clear, just in front of the dais, for receiving the wedding gifts. When the hall was filled to capacity, Reginar lV mounted the dais and called for silence. He spoke and his voice could be easily heard in the furthermost part of the hall. "We have all come to wish the new Duke and Duchess of Brabant the happiness they deserve and I am sure each of you present will want to express their wishes in person. To avoid any confusion my son, Reginar V, will come to each of you in turn so that you may come forward." He nodded to Regi who stood by Baldwin IV Duke of Flanders and Duchess Eleanora. The nobles would be sought out according to rank and power.

Baldwin and Eleanora walked to the foot of the dais and wished the couple a long and happy life together and then Baldwin and Eleanora mounted the dais and Baldwin held out a broadsword toward the new Duke. Its handle was of gold embellished with numerous precious stones. The scabbard and belt were covered with golden designs. Eleanora presented a matching girdle to Gerberga. The gifts were accepted with their thanks and Lambert bade them enjoyment of the feast.

Regi directed the Count and Countess of Cambia and then Namur to follow. He then accompanied his father, in their turn. Regi carried the golden oil lamps and his father carried a large gold tray piled high with food for the ones on the dais to eat along with six gold goblets filled with wine. The tray was placed on a low table on the dais.

The minor Counts of the realm came forward in their turn. The pile of gifts in the form of mantles, goblets, bliaunts, plates, tapestries, fine linens, furs and candle holders of gold and silver grew. Count Lambert's scribe sat next to the dais and recorded each gift and who gave it. Each guest would expect a parting gift of equal value after the wedding feast was over. Many of the gifts were beyond the value of any parting gift that Charles and Lambert had to offer as a parting gift. This was the intent of the giver. It caused the new Duke and Duchess to be in the debt of the giver.

By late afternoon the last of the wedding presents from the nobles had been gratefully received. Duke Charles suggested that Lambert and Gerberga venture out to the inner bailey to meet the knights and their ladies as well as the villains, merchants and others that had come for the wedding feast. Several squires accompanied them. The squires were to carry away any gifts presented.

The atmosphere in the courtyard was much more relaxed. There was on order of rank for greetings in the great hall, but outside the couple was approached by persons as they neared them. Lambert saw Gui and his wife Sarah standing quietly watching him and Gerberga. Gui had taught him to use a broadsword as soon as he was old enough to hold a light one made of wood. He saw Lambert guide Gerberga toward them and beamed his broken-toothed grin. He bowed elegantly. Sarah curtseyed low. After Lambert explained to Gerberga how he owed his life to Gui several times over, Gui was embarrassed by the praise of this now great Lord. He smiled and said "My Sarah has a gift for your new bride if she will be so kind as to accept it.

Sarah held out a small wooden box toward Gerberga. Gerberga took the box with thanks. It was ornately carved and was to hold some object of value to the Duchess.

"Please open it My Lady." spoke Sarah shyly.

Gerberga had not thought the box contained anything, but now lifted the lid. She was astonished to find a beautiful silver cross, which looked like the finest of lace on a silver chain. "It's beautiful." she cried. "I want to wear it now, Could you fasten the clasp for me please Sarah?"

It was Sarah's turn to beam a smile. "I'd be honored to My Lady."

Lambert watched as the pendant was adjusted. It glittered in the late afternoon sunlight. He spoke to Gui, "I have a great favor to ask of you. I would like for you to accompany me to Lovayne and be the Master-at-Arms?"

 "Master-at-Arms?" queried Gui "Isn't that a position that requires a knight? I am only a soldier."

"I intend to bestow you to Knighthood before leaving for Lovayne."

Lambert and Gerberga left the dazed couple and returned to the Great Hall and joined Charles, Bonne, Count Lambert and Regi. Bonne noticed the sparkling pendant worn by Gerberga and asked who had given it to her. When she explained that Gui's wife, Sarah, had given it when they had gone to the courtyard to greet the guests there.

Duke Charles looked puzzled and asked "How could a common soldier's wife afford a gift like that?"

Count Lambert could hardly contain himself as he solemnly stated, "I pay my soldiers quite well."

 None in the group looked more dumbfounded than Duke Charles. "Do you really pay them that well?" he asked.

Bone saw the twinkle in Count Lambert's eyes. She poked Charles. "You’ve got no sense of humor Charles. Don't you realize that Lambert is joking?"

Then they all laughed so loud that others in the great hall stared at them.

Duke Charles changed the subject by asking, "How goes the feast outside?" 

"Some have already had too much wine." interjected Gerberga.

"That's to be expected at a wedding feast. Even our most sedate ladies will be giggling before the eve is over." said Charles.

From the dais came the voice of Count Reginar's son as he shouted like a hawker in the market place. "Nobles and Ladies, we now bring you entertainers from Mons followed by jongleurs to play music for you to dance"

A fellow came on the stage wearing a cape twice the length of a normal mantle. On his head he wore a crown of exaggerated size. In his right hand he carried a royal staff of authority. He did not say a word, but strutted about the stage in a pompous manner. Everyone knew he was suppose to be Hugh Capet and laughed. The mimic seemed to be searching the crowd in the hall with his eyes. Peering first this way and then that. Finally as the laughter for his antics began to wane, he reached inside his cape and pulled out a bishop's peaked cap and held it out for everyone to see. "I've lost my Archbishop. Has anyone seen my Archbishop?" The hall roared with laughter as he left the stage still searching. The Archbishop of Reams had given the winning argument for the election of Hugh Capet as King of France instead of Duke Charles. Charles had stormed and captured Reams in 987 to punish Archbishop Adelbero and Hugh Capet had appointed Arnulf, an illegitimate son of King Luthair to replace him.

Duke Charles laughed louder than anyone else. "I wish Hugh Capet could have seen that." He said with tears of laughter on his cheeks as the next act came on the stage.

After all the performers had entertained, a group of musicians mounted the platform and began to play lively dance music. The dancing then began in the Great Hall. As the numbers of couples increased on the floor the onlookers moved back toward the walls. The dancing was in twos and fours holding hands as the circled round and round to the tempo of the music. The tempo of the music increased every minute or so until the dancers became dizzy and fell down. The last couple to remain on their feet was applauded. Every other dance was slow and sedate with much bowing and kissing of the hand of the ladies. This allowed the dancers to catch their breath between the fast dances.

Outside in the courtyard the entertainment continued in torchlight. The different acts of the performers were going on at different points on the grounds at the same time. Musicians also were playing for dancing. Excessive wine drinking and eating had thinned the crowd somewhat. The marshals of the castle continuously walked around to separate men that started to fight for one reason or another. Usually because of advances made toward a wife or daughter by the unattached men at the feast. However many an advance seemed to have resulted in mutual agreement? There were very few dark corners without a couple wrapped in an embrace.

Eating, drinking and dancing continued on into the night in the Great Hall and outside in the courtyard. Announcements were made in both areas about games scheduled for the following day. The games included billiards, guilles, and tennis. For those with bolder tastes there would be a contest for jousters on the exercise grounds north of the castle. This would be followed by a melee. The announcement caused excitement among the nobles and knights alike. Boasts were made, challenges accepted and many wagers were made.

As the evening came to an end, the Bishop, the bride and groom, their parents and several selected noble ladies went upstairs to the bridal chamber. It was located just above the Great Hall. One of the walls was the chimney of the fireplace in the Great Hall, so it was nice and warm there. The bridal bed was headed against the chimney with its silk draped canopy drawn back. The sheets were of silk and the bed was covered with a fir comforter. On either side were low tables with one of the faceted oil lamps on each instead of the usual night candle. The table on the left had the matching gold tray with sweets and wine.

The Bishop had the couple kneel beside the bed. It was then censed like an altar. The groom, the parents and the Bishop then left so that the selected noble ladies could perform the ancient time honored practice of "putting the bride to bed".

 Gerberga's clothing was removed, leaving her only her chemise. As they undressed her there was much giggling and giving of advice. All of them seemed to speak at once so that Gerberga could not hear everything that was being said. She heard Eleanora of Flanders say "You should pretend to like----", but the rest was lost in a peal of laughter. After the ladies had left the room she remembered sketchy bits of what had been said. She remembered some frightening words used that she didn't know the meaning of and began to sob.

Lambert entered the room and one look at Gerberga caused him to rush to the bedside and enfold her in his arms. "Did they hurt you? Did they do something to you? What is wrong?" She only sobbed louder. He rocked her back and forth as though quieting a baby.

Finally she sobbed "They told me what I'm supposed to do" and she continued to cry.

"There, there, don't cry. You don't need to be told. You'll see."

"How can that be?" pleaded Gerberga.

He released her and gazed into her swollen eyes. "Do you have to tell a rosebud how to bloom or a little bird to sing?" he asked and then continued "No of course not. It all comes naturally. That's the way it will be tonight with us. Everything will happen naturally."

She smiled. "Really? You aren't just saying that?"

"You'll see." he consoled as they reached and clung to each other.

After Gerberga quieted Lambert stood and removed his belt, then his tunic, shirt and boots. He was standing with only his woolen stocking breeches. As she looked on his naked body a warm feeling seemed to spread all through her. She trembled as he crawled beneath the sheets and took her into his arms once more.

Everything did happen naturally. Oh how naturally and wonderfully it happened.

The following morning Lambert and Gerberga were awakened by a loud knocking on the door. It was Duke Charles announcing that their breakfast was ready. "Don't dally." He called and they heard the sound of his boots as he went toward the stairs.

Lambert rolled over and kissed Gerberga. "Good morning Wife." he said as he kissed her once more. He moved his hand to caress her.

"Don't" she protested "if we don't go down right away everyone will look at us in a funny way."

"They will anyway, whether we go down now or later. Just as well be taken for a lion as a lamb I always say." he said as he drew her closer.

"You are my lion." she breathed as she melted in his arms."

Outside the keep the marshals walked through the tent area calling "All jousters make ready." The knights, a