“It is well,” answered Northumberland. “Set them free.” As soon as the guard had withdrawn, the council advanced, and each, in turn, according to his degree, subscribed the despatch. This done, Northumberland delivered it to an officer, enjoining him to give it instantly to the messenger, with orders to the latter to ride for his life, and not to draw bridle till he reached Kenninghall.
“And now,” continued the Duke, addressing another officer, “let the gates of the Tower be closed, the drawbridges raised, and suffer none to go forth, on pain of death, without my written order.”
“Diable!” exclaimed De Noailles, shrugging his shoulders.
“Prisoners!” cried several of the privy-councillors.
“You are the queen’s guests, my lords,” observed the Duke, drily.
“Do you agree to my scheme now?” asked Renard, in a deep whisper. “Do you consent to Northumberland’s assassination?”
“I do,” replied Pembroke. “But who will strike the blow?”
“I will find the man,” answered Renard.
These words, though uttered under the breath of the speakers, reached the ears of Cuthbert Cholmondeley.
Shortly afterwards, the council broke up; and Jane was conducted with much state to the royal apartments.