He had applied to the visiting magistrates, who protested the same inability.

A "petition" had then been forwarded to the Home Secretary, but no answer had been received.
While I was pondering this difficulty, my cell door was suddenly opened, and the Governor entered.

Apologising for disturbing me unceremoniously at that unseasonable hour, he informed me that a messenger from the Home Office had brought the necessary permission for our interview.

It took place the next morning.

We had just thirty minutes to arrange our plan for the approaching battle, the consultation being held in the courtyard before breakfast.