The young men looked grave also, for it was in their hearts that if the Cardinal asked it, they would offer him their swords in defence of Calais while there were yet time to save it.
It was at this moment that the old major-domo asked admission to the room; he brought them the news that a Queen's messenger stood at the door seeking an interview with his young masters.
The summons to Whitehall had arrived, as the envoys told Sir John when they had interviewed the messenger.
"Go, my boys, go, but remember my advice," said Sir John, as the family gathering came to an end.
The journey to Whitehall was soon accomplished. The Royal Palace was shrouded in gloom; it was but dimly lit up, for it was not a "guest night."
Alas! guest nights were rare events now that the Queen lay ill; in fact, she had withdrawn herself from almost all public functions.
The Palace was strongly guarded, and ere the young soldiers could gain admittance the officer on duty demanded the password.
It had been communicated to them by the messenger, and, strange to say, the word for the night was "St. Quentin."
Their business being ascertained, they were immediately conducted to the private room occupied by the Cardinal when he was at Whitehall, and soon they were ushered into his presence.