William sat up in his chair.
“Well, ’and it me,” he said. “Bring the pen.”
Sir John brought a pen and the paper.
“It is nothing of importance?” asked William, looking at the folded sheet.
“Of none whatever, sir.”
The King affixed his great scrawling signature.
“Take it to Milor’ Nottingham for the countersign, Sir John.”
“Sir, Lord Nottingham is not at the palace to-night, and it is desirable that this go immediately.”
William took the letter, opened it, laid it on his knee, signed it again at the top, and handed it back to Sir John.
“I thank your Majesty,” said the Master of Stair with a little smile.