"Then you are the one for the purpose. A dozen men-at-arms have been
detailed for you; take them and proceed direct to Craigston Castle and
deliver to Sir John de Bury this letter. I ride to York to-day and
South to-morrow. If you hasten, you can rejoin me at Nottingham. Do
you understand?"

"Perfectly, my lord."

"Then away. Come, gentlemen!" and the Duke walked briskly to the
stairway.

As he came within view of those in the courtyard, there arose a mighty
shout that echoed from the walls and keep. Gloucester's calm face
relaxed in a slight smile and he waved his hand in response. Then
scarce touching his foot to the stirrup which Catesby held he leaped
into saddle. The trumpet rang out, and the horsemen, breaking from
square into column, filed out of the courtyard and across the outer
bailey.

Gloucester had tarried, meanwhile, to speak a final word to Sir Robert
Wallingford; and when he had finished, the last clatter of hoofs on the
drawbridge had ceased. As the Constable stepped back with a farewell
salute, Richard's quick eye discerned the face of the Duchess at an
upper window. Swinging his charger in a demi-volte, he doffed bonnet
and flung her a kiss with his finger tips.

"_Au revoir, amante_," he called.

She smiled sweetly upon him and answered his kiss; then stood watching
him as he rode rapidly away, followed by his attendant Knights, until