This was a re-read, after many years. I read this book from Wigmore Public Library when I was 8 or 9 I guess. I loved it, read it several times, but never owned a copy until now. In fact, although it stayed in my mind, I am ashamed to say I forgot its title and author. About 15 years ago I started wracking my brains about who might have written it, what it might have been called, but to no avail. Then, 2 weeks ago, at work, I was re-ordering stock when the computer screen suddenly shouted out at me 'Cue For Treason by Geoffrey Trease', and my years of searching were finally over. Joy of joys! And yes it was as good as I remember.
The plot is as follows: Peter Brownrigg, a boy growing up in the Lake District in Elizabethan England, becomes involved in a local rebellion against a mean and unscrupulous landowner. During a night raid it becomes evident that Peter is the only one who can be identified. His parents advise him to lie low, away from the area, maybe for up to a year until things have died down. Peter leaves and comes across a band of travelling actors, who, after helping him from almost getting caught by his pursuers, offer him a job in their troupe. They travel south to London, and it is here that Peter learns of a treasonous plot against the Queen.
I won't tell any more, other than that it has lots of suspense and adventure. A great story that should appeal to any historical-minded boy or girl. One thing I learnt from it but had forgotten where, and made me laugh when I re-read it, was a cure for a stitch: touch your knee with your chin, or chin with your knee! I don't often get a stitch these days, and I'm not sure I can touch my chin with my knee anymore. I could when I was 9.