Wallenstein's orders had been rapidly carried
out; a squadron of cavalry were formed up in the courtyard. and in
front of them an attendant held a horse with a pillion behind the
saddle. Malcolm lifted Thekla on to the pillion and sprang into
the saddle in front of her. One of Wallenstein's household handed
a letter to him and then gave him into the charge of the officer
commanding the squadron, who had already received his orders. The
officer at once gave the word and rode from the castle followed by
the cavalry.
As soon as they were out of the town the pace was quickened, and the
cavalcade proceeded at a trot which was kept up with few intermissions
until nightfall, by which time twenty miles had been covered.
They halted for the night in a small town where the soldiers were
billeted on the inhabitants, comfortable apartments being assigned
to Malcolm and his charge.
Soon after daybreak the journey was continued. A sharp watch was
now kept up, as at any moment parties of the Swedish cavalry making
a raid far in advance of their lines might be met with. No such
adventure happened, and late in the afternoon the troop halted on
the crest of a low hill.
"Here," the officer said, "we part. That town which you see across
the river is held by the Swedes, and you will certainly meet with
no molestation from any of our side as you ride down to it.
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