Murry forced his shaking hand to write clearly. He wrote the message as fast as he could, making sure the facts were direct and easy to read.
He finished the letter, dried it and quickly folded the paper in half. He reached for a stick of red wax, melted a large drop onto the paper, and pressed the Benson family seal firmly into the hot wax.
Murry grabbed the sealed letter and ran back out the front doors.
"Courier!" Murry shouted into the courtyard.
A young, fast courier, who was always on standby for urgent family messages, ran forward. He was already wearing his riding boots and a light leather jacket.
"Yes, sir!" the courier answered.
Murry shoved the sealed letter directly into the young man's hands.
"Take a fast horse," Murry commanded strictly. His voice was absolutely serious. "Ride to the military camp. Do not stop for anything. Do not slow down. Hand this letter directly to the General or Lieutenant Kade. It is a matter of life and death."
