One Corpse Too Many (Chronicles of Brother Cadfael, #2)

by Ellis Peters

But keep your lips locked among others. We are in the battlefield here, as sure as in the town, our gates never being closed to any. All manner of men rub shoulders here, and in rough times some may try to buy favour with carrying tales. Some may even be collectors of such tales for their living. Your thoughts are safe in your head, best keep them there.” The boy drew back a little, and hung his head. Possibly he felt himself reproved. Possibly not! “I’ll pay you trust for trust,” said Cadfael. “In my measure there’s little to choose between two such monarchs, but much to be said for keeping a man’s fealty and word.

Resonates in today's social and political climate...