9 Edward and Miles Learn More

CHAPTER 9 Edward and Miles Learn More Edward should have been the one speaking with Lord Hertford. He should have been the one the crowd cheered. Instead, he was running through the streets of London, trying to find safety. Miles led Edward through the back streets and alleys. He held onto the prince's arm tightly. More and more people were flooding into the streets. Miles didn't understand all

the excitement. He was surprised that the street fair was so big. By the time they reached the London Bridge, the streets were filled with people. Edward learned the news of his father's death from the cheers and shouts of the crowd. They called, "The king is dead! Long live the king! Long live King Edward!" Tears came to the boy's eyes. This man who was often so mean to others had always been gentle with him. It upset him to know that his father was dead and he had not said good-bye. "I am now king," Edward said quietly. He looked at the cheering crowd around him. "I am now King Edward. Isn't it strange that no one can see me?" Miles and Edward walked over the bridge. There were so many people on it that their movement was very slow. The bridge was always a busy place. It was lined with stores,

inns, butcher shops, and bakeries. In fact, it was like a small city all on its own. Miles was staying at one of these inns. He and Edward were just about to walk through the front door when John Canty grabbed Edward from behind. Mr. Canty had been looking for his son all day. He had crossed the bridge many times and asked everyone he knew if they had seen the boy. At last he had spotted him walking with Miles. "So you thought you could escape," Mr. Canty hissed. He was furious. "I'll teach you a lesson—a lesson you will not soon forget." He pulled Edward by the arm, trying to take him down the street. Miles stepped between them. "What do you have to do with this boy?" he asked. "Why are you threatening him?" "What business is it of yours?" Mr. Canty's eyes narrowed. "He is my son, and I will do

as I please." "That's a lie!" Edward said. "He is not my father. My father is the king. Or rather, my father was the king." Edward looked sad for a moment, but he quickly calmed himself. "This is a cruel and heartless man." "Don't make me angry, boy," Mr. Canty said. "Don't try my patience." "I will not go with him!" Edward said. "Well, that settles it," Miles said. "The boy stays with me." He crossed his arms and held his ground. "We'll see about that," Mr. Canty said as he reached for Edward. "Mark my words," Miles said slowly. "This boy is now under my protection. No one will harm him. No one will force him do anything he doesn't want to do. For your own safety, I suggest you leave him alone." Miles rested his hand on his sword and stared at Mr. Canty. Mr. Canty mumbled under his breath and

walked away. "It should be all right now," Miles said. He put his hand on the boy's shoulder. "We'll get a good night's sleep, at least." Edward followed Miles up three flights of stairs to his room. By this time, it was very late at night. Edward was hungry and tired. "Good sir, please let me know when the servants have brought in the evening meal," he said. Then he lay down on the bed. "I am very hungry, I'm afraid. I don't think I've eaten anything for a day or two." Before Miles could even reply, Edward was fast asleep. Miles smiled. This boy may only be imagining he is the Prince of Wales, but he certainly knows how to behave like royalty. He just took my bed without even asking. Miles looked about the room for an extra blanket, but there was none. He took off his jacket and used it to cover Edward.

Poor boy, Miles thought. He is sick and confused, and doesn't have a friend in the world. Miles watched the boy as he slept. He looked so helpless. Miles thought about his own family. He had not seen them in years. He wondered if his father was still alive. His brothers, Arthur and Hugh, would have changed so much in the seven years since he had last spoken to them. Perhaps he should bring the boy back to his home. His father would welcome the sick boy with open arms. His brother Arthur would also be kind. Hugh might be more of a problem. Hugh had not been a nice person, but Miles hoped he had changed over the years. Miles looked at Edward and said, "Well, I'll be his friend. After all, I am already his defender. Now I will act as his brother, too. Anyone who tries to harm him will have to deal with me first." Just then a servant arrived with dinner. He