"My dear man," said Lymond, "he was keeping the numbers down. If we hadn't taken precautions the whole of the noble Order of St John would be disporting itself at St Mary's under the delusion that it was earning merit by converting us to the Cross."

He emphasizes the importance of strategic planning to avoid attracting unnecessary attention and false perceptions of their actions. Lymond directs Alec to ensure the column's leader knows their current situation and advises Jerott to focus on their immediate task rather than concern himself with Joleta's fate, highlighting the practical mindset of fighting-men over heavenly ideals.