She had not wept, but in her face was written sorrow beyond weeping.

Yet almost did she weep, when I stood beside her and spoke, putting my hand on her arm.
"Mother," I said, "I must go to Wormingford and warn them also.

My horse will be ready, and I will return to you." Then she looked at me, for as I go over these things I know that this was the first time that I had ever said to her "I must," without asking her leave, in aught that I would do.

And she answered me calmly.
"Aye, that is a good thought.

They will need help.