July 1369 and plague stalks the land. Two men who had set themselves up as corrodians of St. Leonard’s have recently died. Their homes now become property of St. Leonard’s. However, the hospital of St. Leonard’s is in financial difficulty. Don Erkenwald has now approached Owen Archer to tell him of thefts that the hospital has been experiencing. Things are not going well for the hospital.
Later Owen and Magda Digby go out into the country to check on a farmer and his family. They find them dead with the exception of an eleven year old girl. Alisoun Ffulford disappears as soon as the rest of her family is buried. As they return downriver, Magda smells smoke. One of the houses at St. Leonard’s has burned and it’s occupant is dead.
The uncle of Bess Merchet had come to the aid of the dead man, but was struck on the head from behind. He tells Bess that the dead man had also been struck. Bess decides to consult with Owen. Meanwhile, Richard de Ravenser has come to check out the financial situation of the hospital at St. Leonard’s. In his room, he finds that his chess set and a pair of candlesticks are missing. Have they been stolen along with other items belonging to St. Leonard’s? He requests the help of Owen Archer.
Owen sets to with his investigation. In need of some help, he turns to Bess to ask discreet questions. Will her efforts be of help?
Author Candace Robb’s mystery involving St. Leonard’s hospital has an unusual twist to it. The killers are found as is Alisoun’s ancestry inadvertently discovered. A good quick read.
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