IN ECTORS KEEPING

 

In times past .boys. there were days of play.

After the marriage of Uther and Igraine, Morgause (or anna) left her mother's side and became the wife of King Lot. Morgan was placed in the care of the sisterhood of Avalon, and Arthur was hidden was by Merlin. The sage wisely kept the boy's identity a scret, fearing those who would wish harm on Uther's son. It was said that Merlin travelled to the home of Sir Ector and his family. This remote land and its loyal family made for a secure foster home for Arthur.

 Fosterage waas a common practice of the noble blood. children would often stay with the foster family until they came of age, which was generally fourteen for girls and seventeen for boys. In the case of Arthur, no formal arrangements had been made, and some say that Ector and his wife knew not of Arthur's royal blood. But on the bidding of Merlin, the family accepted the boy.

 

While in Ector's keeping, Arthur enjoyed a freedom he would never know again. Most thought him just one of the many royal bastards (as did Arthur himself), which meant his movements were no more restricted than those of his foster brother Kay. Being no more privileged than his companions, Arthur's childhood instilled him with a sense of fair play and honor. Kay and Arthur were given an education made to study literature, foreign languages, poetry, mustic, and the arts of war, after which they were free to roam and enjoy childhood pastimes.

 

Arthur was a likeable boy who later cherished his years and friendships made while in the care of Sir Ector.


Ferguson, Anna-Marie. Keeper of Words. 1995 Llewellyn Publications. St. Paul, Minnesota.

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