This was the summons that had crossed black London town that night.
Mary Connynge rose quickly to her feet, forgetting for the time the man who stood before her.

The instant demanded all the resources of her soul.

She fought to remain mistress of herself.

A moment, and she passed Will Law with swift foot, and gained again the stairway in the hall, the letter still fast within her hand.

Will Law had not time to ask its contents.
"There is need of haste," said she.