Denholm, Captain of the Garrison at Bancross,
This message will be delivered to you by my man, Ealdbriht, who you may recognise. He will confirm who he is by showing my token, and giving you the agreed password.
I will return to the village the eve after next. I shall be travelling alone, riding an unknown horse and cloaked and hooded. I do not wish my presence to be general knowledge at this time.
You will have your most trusted guard at the gate to grant me entry, again by the password, which will be changed thereafter. While I know there are many loyal to the Mark, I cannot risk interference in my mission.
You will meet me at my house shortly thereafter, having again only the most trustworthy of your people on guard. They can know you inspect the house on my order for the imminent arrival of guests.
I am placing much trust in you, Denholm. From all I have found I understand you to be true to your word, strong of will, true to Rohan and not one to be swayed by offers of wealth.. May it be you do not fail me. The safety and wellbeing of Bancross is at stake, and possibly far more.
There will be a second delivery of supplies brought by wagons tomorrow. They travel from Aldburg. It would be wise to send a patrol to stumble upon them, less there are orcs still in that area. Store any excess food in the Mead Hall this time. The folk may think it is all for celebrations, whereas we know it may well be essential in the coming weeks.
For the Mark!
Averel, Thane of Bancross.
