Brilliana stamped impatiently.
“I am not your secretary,” she said, sharply.
“It does not matter,” Evander answered, smoothly. “Colonel Cromwell will follow the laws of war.”
“I am sorry for you if he do,” Brilliana declared. “We shall test the strength of Colonel Cromwell’s love.” She called, loudly, “John Thoroughgood.”
Thoroughgood advanced to her from where he stood removed.
“Ride with a white flag,” Brilliana went on; “ride hard to my Lord Essex’s army, wherever it may be. Where is my Lord Essex, Rufus?”
“They have retired, I think, upon Warwick,” Rufus said, doubtfully.
“Well,” Brilliana continued, “to the rebel army, wherever you can find it. Deliver this letter into the hands of Colonel Cromwell. Bring back his answer swiftly. Ride as if you were riding for your life.”
Thoroughgood saluted, took the letter, and turned to go. Brilliana stopped him.
“First quarter Captain Cloud in the west room, and see him well tended.”