He had told the women nothing of what had transpired to cause the cannon to be moved. Quickly, yet thoroughly, he related how Sir Jamie had seen Lord Paul in one of the towers of the Citadel. That led to describing how Father Calgacus had brought forth a mysterious contraption that only Sir Jamie had used, and his stating that he had read a message from Lord Paul saying that they must attack immediately. That was why they had attacked the Citadel walls and tried their best to burn through the gates.
It was when the fire failed to penetrate the massive oaken planks and allow them entry that the thoughtful Sir Jamie had come up with the idea of using the cannon the way he intended to do. They would see the result, he said, in the morning.
Now, however, it was getting late. Dusk was gone and the night fallen. It was time for them to retire as well. Crossing the room to offer his hand to Marguerite, he lifted her from her seat. Then, in full view of her mother, he put his arms about her waist and hugged her as if life depended upon how hard he could do so. Not enough to hurt, mind, but certainly enough to leave her breathless and slightly gasping as he then turned up her chin and kissed her soundly. Over his beloved's shoulder, he could see the broad smile of Lady Bidane as she winked at him in conspiratorial favor.
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