Dear Mother,

It is past midnight, and I write to tell you that by the time you receive this letter, we may well have joined battle with the King and the issue of this War decided.

It happened that Capt Cromwell, with myself, came in possession of near-certain knowledge that the King is nearby, and that there are Traitors among our army.

Capt-General Essex has called for a general muster at Kineton, about a half-day’s ride before us, to gather the Army so strung out along these sodden Ruts of roads.

Col Hampden has ordered our Troop to ride swift to Essex with this Intelligence, even as he gathers the best of the Foot and the Artillery-train, and follows as quick as the roads and weary men will bear.

Mother, battle is near, blood will be spilled in England, with much grief, but which may bring a Resolution to these Troubles, and allow my return home. Please remember me in your prayers, as you are constantly in mine; and please give my greetings to Father, and to Anne.

Edmund