"
Richard wheeled abruptly. "Come hither," he said, and led the way
toward the window. "Do you know the country or people in the region of
Kirkstall Abbey?"
"No, my lord," said De Lacy. "I have never been north of Pontefract."
"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.
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