Chapter 9, The Bailiff's Wife's Baby Summary

Alyce is out collecting nuts for the midwife when she comes upon the boys teasing the cat. Without thought, Alyce threatens the boys with a flask of blackberry cordial that she says is rat's blood and viper's flesh, claiming it will make the boys act like women. Alyce is too startled to be afraid; since the boys are too startled to react, they leave the cat alone.

The midwife is summoned to the bailiff's house to assist in helping his wife, Joan, give birth. Alyce sleeps outside for most of the night and Jane sends her to the cottage for more supplies as dawn arrives. Alyce returns to Joan's house to find the midwife preparing to go to the manor to assist Lady Agnes who is in labor. The midwife tells Alyce to go to...