Master Peter proffered her an uncouth salutation and pointed to the chest on the floor significantly.
“Lady,” he said, “I have done the King a good turn. There are gold plates there, gold dishes, gold ewers, that will change in the melting-pot to many a troop of horse for the King’s cause.”
“I thank you with all my heart,” Brilliana said, quietly.
Master Peter leered cunningly at her, and earned the cordial dislike of Evander.
“Do you give me your heart with your thanks?” he asked, with what he believed to be gallantry.
Brilliana made a little fanning motion at him with her hand.
“You are too hot,” she said. Then ordered Tiffany, “See these treasures despatched to the King under guard.”
As before, the serving-men took up the chest, which seemed even heavier than the former box, and were convoyed by Tiffany out of the room. Then Brilliana turned to Master Peter, who stood apart biting his nails awkwardly.
“Master Rainham,” she said, “you have shown rare discretion and made brave despatch. I would thank you at greater length were it not that I have company. There is one in the next room who waits to see me. Entreat the gentleman to enter, Captain Halfman.”