Counting them all out

Meanwhile in a tavern in Pappenheim two gentlemen are discussing the parade

“Well how many did you count?”

“Ummm, about two thousand foot and five hundred horse”

“What do you mean about?” came a raised voice

“Keep calm, it was difficult to keep count, besides, someone might be listening”

“So my count was just over 1,800 foot and 460 horse, what did you actually count?”

“Well there were eight companies and assuming the ranks stayed six wide for the infantry and eight files that would make 1,920 men, plus officers, etc.  I think that makes two thousand foot more or less and similar for the cavalry”

“OK, lets go with your figures and explanation for our master, will you pass the message on this time?”

“Yes, but how do we get south to check what is really happening?”

“It’s all conveniently restricted because of so called bandits; I’ll try and find a way”

“Very good, I’ll leave to usual mark to indicate if we need to meet again.

After the gentlemen left the tavern, the father treating his daughter to a meal in a quiet corner asked “Well did you get a good look at them?”

“Yes father”

“Those are just the two spies we know of, and we know they use Frau Wurmser’s Academy as a post box, but we need to find out what happens to the letter after that.  So finish off your lunch and we’ll sort out what you might need”