Directly he heard a low challenge from one of his sentries, who presently appeared escorting a lackey.
“A messenger from Lady Bertrade de Montfort,” said the soldier.
“Bring him hither,” commanded the outlaw.
The lackey approached and handed Norman of Torn a dainty parchment sealed with scented wax wafers.
“Did My Lady say you were to wait for an answer?” asked the outlaw.
“I am to wait, My Lord,” replied the awestruck fellow, to whom the service had been much the same had his mistress ordered him to Hell to bear a message to the Devil.
Norman of Torn turned to a flickering torch and, breaking the seals, read the message from the woman he loved. It was short and simple.
To Norman of Torn, from his friend always, Bertrade de Montfort.
Come with Giles. He has my instructions to lead thee secretly to where I be.
Bertrade de Montfort.