ABSTRACT
Thomas Becket, the son of Sir Gilbert Scott and Matilda Becket, was born on December 21st, 1118 on the north side of Cheapside where the building of the Mercers Company stands. The combination with Becket was extraordinary. Becket loved the idea of young royalty and the responsibility of the association; Henry respected the experience and intellect of the older man. Besides, there was no one else to compare with Becket as a companion, since he had both the shrewd intelligence of a political consultant and tremendous energy, high spirits, and skill in hunting and war. The moral victory was Becket’s: Henry had pursued a hateful, personal quarrel while Becket had continued to stand by a principle. The moment was approaching for which Becket had been preparing since Matins at midnight in his own apartment.
