The Sword in the Tree

Nappus comes into Lady Marian’s room and communicates with her by writing in the ashes of her fireplace. He can read lips and has spied on Lord Weldon and his friends. He reveals that Uncle Lionel intentionally killed Lord Weldon as part of his plot to claim the lordship and castle. Marian explains this to Shan, telling him that they are also in danger of being murdered and must flee the castle. Shan is angry but agrees to leave with his mother. Under the cover of the night and the dense fog, Shan and Marian escape the castle and hurry down the road.

Shan and Lady Marian decide to walk in the woods, which they feel is safer than the road, where they are very noticeable. They quickly finish the food they packed and are hungry. One evening, Shan builds a small fire to keep the wild animals away, and he and his mother discuss their plan to get far away from Weldon Castle before falling asleep. They are woken up by robbers who demand their money and jewels.