To William, the Earl of Essex, his liege-man Robert Faulconbridge writes of his misgivings.

The day not wished for I believe is near upon us, my Lord, for the occasion of the coronation has created unlooked-for domestic strife for your servant. Where the boys were uninterested in their early years with talk of kings and great doings, yet the stirrings of the more robust ages of youth and the thrum of enthusiasm for the sight of the new king now coursing its way through the vales of Essex--indeed, of all England--have conspired to ignite a spark of desire most unquenchable in their minds. Many other sons of knights and barons will be in attendance, and I cannot verily say "no, Philip, you cannot go, for a reason that I must keep from you. And no, Robert, through no fault of your own, you must remain here while your playmates travel freely and in safety to Westminster.

I know the risks, and if I did not, Lady Faulconbridge has rehearsed them to me enough that it would sink into even the thickest skull. But surely my lord understands that these arguments ring hollow? How can these boys grow into men when they are kept in close? What future will they have without the society of their fellows? I must bring them with me, or be no father. I pray that you understand, and can give your blessing.

Your servant,
Robert

To his servant Robert, the Earl of Essex replies,

You are undertaking a significant risk, Sir Robert. One, I must add, which we have counseled you against at the time we entrusted your charge to you. The coronation is precisely the moment of gravest concern; you will have brought that which was to have remained hidden to the main stage with the entire kingdom in attendance.

On the other hand, those we need be most concerned about would indeed notice the absence of one of your sons. And the prospect of denying young Robert a chance to prove himself and perhaps become a squire is monstrous. These arguments of yours have some force, and you have always demonstrated excellent judgment, which quality led me to entrust this matter to you in the first place.

Very well, I extend to you my blessing, but not without pointing out the risk. If ever you loved the boy, if ever you cared for his welfare, you must keep a close watch on him. I will aid you where I can, but he must never be put into a situation where he can be exposed.

With those caveats, I sign off. Take care, Faulconbridge.

Essex.