"Your narrative is useful, and I see that, when we fall in with the
Welsh, it will be necessary to have a picked body of men-at-arms, whose
duty shall be to cover the rear of the main attack; for it seems that
this is the real point of danger. Should we come into conflict with
them, I will assign to you a body of men-at-arms, who with Percy's men
shall, under your command, fulfil that duty. This would at once be of
signal benefit to us, and will give you another opportunity of
distinguishing yourself, and winning your spurs when the time comes."
"I thank you greatly, my lord, and trust that I may so bear myself as
to merit your approbation."
The next morning the force mounted, at daybreak. It consisted of two
hundred horse, that the earl had brought with him; and which was to be
joined, at Chirk, by a hundred and fifty of Lord Grey's men from
Ruthyn, orders having been already sent on for them to hold themselves
in readiness. This was to be done quietly, and without stir, as word
would be sure to be sent to Glendower, were it to be known in the town
that preparations had been made for an expedition. They were to start
from the castle at ten o'clock at night, when the town would be wrapped
in sleep, and would arrive at Chirk before daybreak.
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