Is Reverend Massieu My Friend?

Jean Massieu is younger

than many of the other clerics.

I imagine if he had grown up

in Domrémy, he might have been

friends with my eldest brother, Jacquemin.

Nearly the same age,

they both possess the temperament

of good shepherds.

But Reverend Massieu was born Burgundian.

So even if he believes me innocent,

he must fight like a strong gale against me.

To contradict Bishop Cauchon

would jeopardize his position.

He could lose everything.

Nevertheless, the reverend treats me

with the kindness he would show

one of his parishioners.

He puts his robe at risk

and allows me to tiptoe

on the line of disobedience.

He prays for me.

He is my only friend

in Rouen.

And still

he is my enemy.