"Probably some of those who signed the document, pledging their
fidelity to Wallenstein, have already sent news to the emperor of
what is being done. It is a strange situation and needs great care;
the elements are all uncertain. Wallenstein writes to me as if he
were assured of the allegiance of the whole of his army, and speaks
unquestionably of his power to overthrow the emperor; but the man
is clearly blinded by his ambition and infatuated by his fixed
belief in the stars. However, one thing is certain, he and as much
of his army as he can hold in hand are now our allies, and I must
lose no time in moving such troops as are most easily disposable
to his assistance.
"I will send to Saxony and urge the elector to put in motion a
force to support him, and Duke Bernhard shall move with a division
of our troops. I will at once pen a despatch to Wallenstein, accepting
his alliance and promising him active aid as soon as possible.
"What say you, young sir? You have shown the greatest circumspection
and ability in this affair. Will you undertake to carry my despatch?
You must not travel as a Scottish officer, for if there are any
traitors among the officers of Wallenstein they will assuredly
endeavour to intercept any despatches which may be passing between
us in order to send them to the emperor as proofs of the duke's
guilt."
"I will undertake the task willingly, sir," Malcolm replied, "and
doubt not that I shall be able to penetrate to him in the same
disguise which I before wore.
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