If you should hear of any movements of troops, ride down on the other side of the river till within two miles of Tonneins; then, if you place your men at intervals of three or four hundred yards apart, you will be sure to see us cross, and can give us warning of danger, and such indications as you may gather as to the points where the troops are likely to be posted.

We shall cross about midnight." "I will gladly undertake the mission," Philip said.

"I will go out and procure some horses, at once." "That is unnecessary," the queen said.

"We have brought several spare horses with us, and I have already ordered four to be saddled for you.

You have no armour, I see." "I would rather ride without it, your majesty, especially on such a mission as the present.