In that way we can travel, for the most part, through the
forests; and may escape being seen. We have already left our armour
behind us, at Ludlow, so as to be able to move more rapidly. We are
both Northumbrians, and are accustomed to traverse moors and fells;
and, even should we be seen by any straggling party of the enemy, we
shall have a fair chance of outrunning them, and throwing them off our
track. At any rate, it is my duty to endeavour to carry the letter to
the king."
"Is it a matter of life and death?"
"That I know not, sir. A royal messenger brought it, from London, to
Ludlow. He had ridden with relays of horses, but had no means of
getting farther, and begged Sir Edmund Mortimer to forward it. I
myself, an esquire of Sir Henry Percy, was staying as a guest with Sir
Edmund--who is, as you know, my lord's brother-in-law--and I
volunteered to carry it, being anxious to have an opportunity of doing
service to the king."
"It was a bold offer, young man, and doubtless, when you made it, you
were scarce aware how dangerous was the business that you undertook.
Did I think that it would be of any use, I would furnish you with
twenty men-at-arms to ride with you; but I know that such a force
would, in no way, add to your safety.
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