Part Five/Twenty-Three Summary

After a deep spring cleaning at the Savoy, the May day celebration arrives. John has been assigned by the king to work on border matters with Scotland, even though Percy of Northumberland has all but claimed the job for himself. The poll tax of one pound per head was in effect and being enforced on everyone of fifteen years old. John Ball, whose sermons had caused trouble, has been imprisoned in Kent.

Blanchette's betrothal to Ralph Hastings was to be solemnized. When Ralph arrives at the Savoy to claim Blanchette, Katherine goes to find her. Blanchette is spending time releasing birds from their cages while she sings, reminding Katherine of old Nichola. Blanchette is still pining away for Robin. Blanchette refuses, and calls Katherine the duke's "creature., you and the scurvy pack of bastards that you bear him!" (416). Katherine...