Harby. Such is
the sure promise and steadfast vow of his cousin and the
King's true subject, Brilliana Harby."

As she read, the dour face of Rufus brightened, and he rubbed his
hands in satisfaction at the close.

"By the Lord, an honest thought," he chuckled. "Swing Randolph, swing
rat-face."

Evander smiled disdainfully.

"I am no spy," he asserted, firmly, "and by the laws of war you have
no right to my life."

Brilliana turned on him tauntingly.

"You were taken a rebel in arms and your life is at my mercy."

"Then," said Evander, calmly, "add to your letter my wish that
Colonel Cromwell take no thought of me."

Brilliana stamped impatiently.

"I am not your secretary," she said, sharply.

"It does not matter," Evander answered, smoothly. "Colonel Cromwell
will follow the laws of war."

"I am sorry for you if he do," Brilliana declared. "We shall test the
strength of Colonel Cromwell's love." She called, loudly, "John
Thoroughgood."

Thoroughgood advanced to her from where he stood removed.

"Ride with a white flag," Brilliana went on; "ride hard to my Lord
Essex's army, wherever it may be. Where is my Lord Essex, Rufus?"

"They have retired, I think, upon Warwick," Rufus said, doubtfully.

"Well," Brilliana continued, "to the rebel army, wherever you can
find it. Deliver this letter into the hands of Colonel Cromwell.
Bring back his answer swiftly. Ride as if you were riding for your
life."

Thoroughgood saluted, took the letter, and turned to go. Brilliana
stopped him.

"First quarter Captain Cloud in the west room, and see him well
tended."

Evander bowed.

"I thank you," he said, and followed Thoroughgood out of the room.
Brilliana turned to Rufus.

"I trust you will all feast here to-night."

Rufus shook his head sadly.

"Tears in my eyes and heart, but not possible. We join the King
to-night for Banbury." He came close to her and spoke low. "Bright
Brilliana, will you not give me your golden promise ere I go?"

"You must not ask that yet," Brilliana pleaded. "I must know my own
mind."

Sir Rufus banged his hands together.

"By God, I know mine, and my mind is to win you if I have to kill a
regiment of rivals."

Brilliana pretended to shudder at his ferocity.

"Lord! you are a very violent lover."

Rufus did not deny her.

"I am a very earnest lover, a very desperate lover."

Brilliana made a gesture of protest.

"Fie, this is no love-talk time, when the K