I am thankful that it has been permitted to me to carry out my husband's wishes, and to place my boy in your hands.

That done, my work on earth is finished, and glad indeed am I that the time is at hand when I can rejoin my dear husband." "We have a building here where we can lodge ladies in distress or need, Dame Tresham, and trust that you will take up your abode there." "I shall indeed be thankful to do so," she replied.

"I know no one in London, and few would care to lodge a dying woman." "We are Hospitallers," the grand prior said.

"That was our sole mission when we were first founded, and before we became a military order, and it is still a part of our sworn duty to aid the distressed." A few minutes later Dame Tresham was conducted to a comfortable apartment, and was given into the charge of a female attendant.

The next day she had another interview with the grand prior, to whom she handed over her jewels and remaining money.