We had indeed dispatched a messenger to say as much.

But the Provost and the citizens were too many for us.

They ran to the citadel, and made such work that the Governor yielded, and I offered, being fleet of foot, to run after the messenger and stop him if it could be done.

Luckily his own heart misgave him, and he had not hurried.

And close upon my heels were sent others with more definite instructions.