Fortunately, once his initial excitement passed, Master Shepherd remembered that today was the day his new concubine was to join the family. After the concubine served tea to his wife, he had her escorted to the bridal chamber, but he himself did not move.
Mr. Shepherd took the opportunity to say he was going to the front hall for drinks. Upon receiving permission, he departed.
Faye Yardley wondered, 'Melisande brought me here for the wedding feast. Surely she won't let me go hungry, right?'
Just as she was debating whether to get up and follow Mr. Shepherd out, Master Shepherd kindly expressed his gratitude to her. His thanks were simple and direct: a pouch of gold and silver ingots.
Since it was, after all, his wedding night, Master Shepherd left after expressing his thanks.
The moment he left, Mrs. Shepherd's face fell.
