Kunz Schmidt

the Tuesday after St Urban, at Vespers

The beams were heavier today. I took the thicker ends so Ernest would not limp so much in the mud. If Foreman Hynek saw, he would sack us both on the spot.

• 
  Ernest Grey

  God bless you for it, lad. My knee is pure agony in this damp weather.

Nota scribaeDictated very quietly, while staring intently at his own boots.

the eve of St Pancras, at None

I saw more Hungarian troops on the road today. I wish I had apprenticed as a tailor instead of hauling wood for the town. At least needles do not crush your toes, and a tailor can hide indoors.

• 
  Thomas Smith

  A tailor? Christ almighty, Kunz, you would probably just stitch your own fingers together in your fright.

the third day of Easter week, at Sext

I begged Albrecht again to carry a letter to my mother. He is travelling that way anyway, but he just tells me to sod off. I only want her to know I am alive, and to ask if she still has food.

• 
  Albrecht

  I told you, boy, I carry ore, not parchment. Find a priest to do your errands.

• 
  Kunz Schmidt

  But you are walking right past my village! It is just one piece of paper.

the Monday after St Gregory, at Prime

It was freezing in the attic last night. Thomas and William were shouting again about that rusty axe. I just want it to be quiet so Marion does not come back from Prague and throw us all into the street.

• 
  William Mailer

  I would not have to shout if Thomas did not steal my bloody axe in the first place!

Nota scribaeThe lad stammered twice and kicked at the dirt while saying this.

Candlemas, at Compline

We had stale bread again for supper. I miss my mother's cooking so much my stomach aches constantly. I pray the Hungarian soldiers have not eaten all her winter stores while I am stuck here hauling timber.

• 
  Adam Mailer

  We all miss a full belly, lad. Keep your head down and earn your pennies.