It had been some years since the plague struck. Life was getting back to normal. People were recovering from the trauma of losing their loved ones. They were learning to rebuild their lives. Even so, the lords were finding it difficult to find laborers to work on their farms. They were paying a handsome price to anyone who knew the job well and was willing to work. Even though I was a merchant, I was tempted to switch professions. However, I told myself it was a matter of time before my luck would change. There would be plenty of opportunities to earn good money by selling my wares. Maybe moving to a new city would help. Cousin John had been suggesting a visit. His city would have opportunities for a cloth merchant.