I see, however, that what you say is reasonable and
cogent, and that the news you have to tell may well induce Oxenstiern
to lay aside the doubts which have so long kept us asunder and at
once to embrace my offer. What, then, do you propose?"
"I would ask, sir," Malcolm replied, "that you would at once
order a squadron of horse to escort me and my companion through
the debatable land between your army and that of the Swedes, with
orders for us to pass freely on as soon as we are beyond your
outposts and in the neighbourhood of those of the Swedes."
"It shall be done," Wallenstein said. "In half an hour a squadron
of horse shall be drawn up in the courtyard here, and a horse and
pillion in readiness for yourself and the maiden. In the meantime
I will myself prepare a letter for you to present to the Swedish
chancellor with fresh proposals for common action."
CHAPTER XXIII THE MURDER OF WALLENSTEIN
Malcolm hurried back to his lodging, where he was received with a
cry of delight from Thekla, who had passed the time since he had
left her on her knees praying for his safety. He told her at once
that she was about to be restored to safety among friends, that
her troubles were at an end, and she was again to resume her proper
garments which she had brought with her in the basket containing
his tools at the time of her flight.
A few minutes sufficed to make the change, and then she accompanied
Malcolm to the castle.
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