How now, Abner? You are well
muffled!'
'Is it true Scherirah is at hand?'
'I doubt not all is right. Would that the dawn would break!'
'The enemy is advancing. Some of their columns are in sight. My scouts
have dodged them. They intend doubtless to form upon the plain.'
'They are in sight, eh! Then we will attack them at once ere they
are formed. Rare, rare! We'll beat them yet. Courage, dear brother.
Scherirah will be here at dawn in good time, very good time: very, very
good time.'
'I like the thought'
'The men are in good heart. At break of dawn, charge with thirty
thousand cavalry upon their forming ranks. I'll take the right, Asriel
the left. It shall be a family affair, dear Abner. How is Miriam?'
'I heard this morn, quite well. She sends you her love and prayers. The
Queen is here?'
'She came this eve. Quite well.'
'She must excuse all courtesy.'
'Say nothing. She is a soldier's wife. She loves thee well, dear Abner.'
'I know that. I hope my sword may guard her children's throne.'
'Well, give thy orders. Instant battle, eh?'
'Indeed I think so.'
'I'll send couriers to hurry Scherirah. All looks well. Reserve the
guard.'
'Ay, ay! Farewell, dear Sire.
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