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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:17:13 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:17:13 -0700 |
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diff --git a/1461-h/1461-h.htm b/1461-h/1461-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9b0990d --- /dev/null +++ b/1461-h/1461-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,10664 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + A Legend of Montrose, by Sir Walter Scott + </title> + <style type="text/css"> + <!-- + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent5 { margin-left: 5%;} + .indent10 { margin-left: 10%;} + .indent15 { margin-left: 15%;} + .indent20 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent30 { margin-left: 30%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 100%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + .side { float: left; font-size: 75%; width: 25%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + p.pfirst, p.noindent {text-indent: 0} + span.dropcap { float: left; margin: 0 0.1em 0 0; line-height: 1 } + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + --> +</style> + </head> + <body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 1461 ***</div> + + <p> + <br /> + </p> + + +<p> + <br /> + </p> +<hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h1> + A LEGEND OF MONTROSE + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + by<br /> Sir Walter Scott + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> I. INTRODUCTION TO A LEGEND OF MONTROSE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> II. INTRODUCTION (Supplement). </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> III. A LEGEND OF MONTROSE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0027"> IV. APPENDIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0028"> No. II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0029"> V. NOTES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0030"> Note I.—FIDES ET FIDUCIA SUNT RELATIVA. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0031"> Note II.—WRAITHS. </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + I. INTRODUCTION TO A LEGEND OF MONTROSE. + </h2> + <p> + The Legend of Montrose was written chiefly with a view to place before the + reader the melancholy fate of John Lord Kilpont, eldest son of William + Earl of Airth and Menteith, and the singular circumstances attending the + birth and history of James Stewart of Ardvoirlich, by whose hand the + unfortunate nobleman fell. + </p> + <p> + Our subject leads us to talk of deadly feuds, and we must begin with one + still more ancient than that to which our story relates. During the reign + of James IV., a great feud between the powerful families of Drummond and + Murray divided Perthshire. The former, being the most numerous and + powerful, cooped up eight score of the Murrays in the kirk of Monivaird, + and set fire to it. The wives and the children of the ill-fated men, who + had also found shelter in the church, perished by the same conflagration. + One man, named David Murray, escaped by the humanity of one of the + Drummonds, who received him in his arms as he leaped from amongst the + flames. As King James IV. ruled with more activity than most of his + predecessors, this cruel deed was severely revenged, and several of the + perpetrators were beheaded at Stirling. In consequence of the prosecution + against his clan, the Drummond by whose assistance David Murray had + escaped, fled to Ireland, until, by means of the person whose life he had + saved, he was permitted to return to Scotland, where he and his + descendants were distinguished by the name of Drummond-Eirinich, or + Ernoch, that is, Drummond of Ireland; and the same title was bestowed on + their estate. + </p> + <p> + The Drummond-ernoch of James the Sixth’s time was a king’s forester in the + forest of Glenartney, and chanced to be employed there in search of + venison about the year 1588, or early in 1589. This forest was adjacent to + the chief haunts of the MacGregors, or a particular race of them, known by + the title of MacEagh, or Children of the Mist. They considered the + forester’s hunting in their vicinity as an aggression, or perhaps they had + him at feud, for the apprehension or slaughter of some of their own name, + or for some similar reason. This tribe of MacGregors were outlawed and + persecuted, as the reader may see in the Introduction to ROB ROY; and + every man’s hand being against them, their hand was of course directed + against every man. In short, they surprised and slew Drummond-ernoch, cut + off his head, and carried it with them, wrapt in the corner of one of + their plaids. + </p> + <p> + In the full exultation of vengeance, they stopped at the house of + Ardvoirlich and demanded refreshment, which the lady, a sister of the + murdered Drummond-ernoch (her husband being absent), was afraid or + unwilling to refuse. She caused bread and cheese to be placed before them, + and gave directions for more substantial refreshments to be prepared. + While she was absent with this hospitable intention, the barbarians placed + the head of her brother on the table, filling the mouth with bread and + cheese, and bidding him eat, for many a merry meal he had eaten in that + house. + </p> + <p> + The poor woman returning, and beholding this dreadful sight, shrieked + aloud, and fled into the woods, where, as described in the romance, she + roamed a raving maniac, and for some time secreted herself from all living + society. Some remaining instinctive feeling brought her at length to steal + a glance from a distance at the maidens while they milked the cows, which + being observed, her husband, Ardvoirlich, had her conveyed back to her + home, and detained her there till she gave birth to a child, of whom she + had been pregnant; after which she was observed gradually to recover her + mental faculties. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the outlaws had carried to the utmost their insults against the + regal authority, which indeed, as exercised, they had little reason for + respecting. They bore the same bloody trophy, which they had so savagely + exhibited to the lady of Ardvoirlich, into the old church of Balquidder, + nearly in the centre of their country, where the Laird of MacGregor and + all his clan being convened for the purpose, laid their hands successively + on the dead man’s head, and swore, in heathenish and barbarous manner, to + defend the author of the deed. This fierce and vindictive combination gave + the author’s late and lamented friend, Sir Alexander Boswell, Bart., + subject for a spirited poem, entitled “Clan-Alpin’s Vow,” which was + printed, but not, I believe, published, in 1811 [See Appendix No. I]. + </p> + <p> + The fact is ascertained by a proclamation from the Privy Council, dated + 4th February, 1589, directing letters of fire and sword against the + MacGregors [See Appendix No. II]. This fearful commission was executed + with uncommon fury. The late excellent John Buchanan of Cambusmore showed + the author some correspondence between his ancestor, the Laird of + Buchanan, and Lord Drummond, about sweeping certain valleys with their + followers, on a fixed time and rendezvous, and “taking sweet revenge for + the death of their cousin, Drummond-ernoch.” In spite of all, however, + that could be done, the devoted tribe of MacGregor still bred up survivors + to sustain and to inflict new cruelties and injuries. + </p> + <p> + [I embrace the opportunity given me by a second mention of this tribe, to + notice an error, which imputes to an individual named Ciar Mohr MacGregor, + the slaughter of the students at the battle of Glenfruin. I am informed + from the authority of John Gregorson, Esq., that the chieftain so named + was dead nearly a century before the battle in question, and could not, + therefore, have done the cruel action mentioned. The mistake does not rest + with me, as I disclaimed being responsible for the tradition while I + quoted it, but with vulgar fame, which is always disposed to ascribe + remarkable actions to a remarkable name.—See the erroneous passage, + ROB ROY, Introduction; and so soft sleep the offended phantom of Dugald + Ciar Mohr. + </p> + <p> + It is with mingled pleasure and shame that I record the more important + error, of having announced as deceased my learned acquaintance, the Rev. + Dr. Grahame, minister of Aberfoil.—See ROB ROY, p.360. I cannot now + recollect the precise ground of my depriving my learned and excellent + friend of his existence, unless, like Mr. Kirke, his predecessor in the + parish, the excellent Doctor had made a short trip to Fairyland, with + whose wonders he is so well acquainted. But however I may have been + misled, my regret is most sincere for having spread such a rumour; and no + one can be more gratified than I that the report, however I have been + induced to credit and give it currency, is a false one, and that Dr. + Grahame is still the living pastor of Aberfoil, for the delight and + instruction of his brother antiquaries.] + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Young James Stewart of Ardvoirlich grew up to manhood uncommonly + tall, strong, and active, with such power in the grasp of his hand in + particular, as could force the blood from beneath the nails of the persons + who contended with him in this feat of strength. His temper was moody, + fierce, and irascible; yet he must have had some ostensible good + qualities, as he was greatly beloved by Lord Kilpont, the eldest son of + the Earl of Airth and Menteith. + </p> + <p> + This gallant young nobleman joined Montrose in the setting up his standard + in 1644, just before the decisive battle at Tippermuir, on the 1st + September in that year. At that time, Stewart of Ardvoirlich shared the + confidence of the young Lord by day, and his bed by night, when, about + four or five days after the battle, Ardvoirlich, either from a fit of + sudden fury or deep malice long entertained against his unsuspecting + friend, stabbed Lord Kilpont to the heart, and escaped from the camp of + Montrose, having killed a sentinel who attempted to detain him. Bishop + Guthrie gives us a reason for this villainous action, that Lord Kilpont + had rejected with abhorrence a proposal of Ardvoirlich to assassinate + Montrose. But it does not appear that there is any authority for this + charge, which rests on mere suspicion. Ardvoirlich, the assassin, + certainly did fly to the Covenanters, and was employed and promoted by + them. He obtained a pardon for the slaughter of Lord Kilpont, confirmed by + Parliament in 1634, and was made Major of Argyle’s regiment in 1648. Such + are the facts of the tale here given as a Legend of Montrose’s wars. The + reader will find they are considerably altered in the fictitious + narrative. + </p> + <p> + The author has endeavoured to enliven the tragedy of the tale by the + introduction of a personage proper to the time and country. In this he has + been held by excellent judges to have been in some degree successful. The + contempt of commerce entertained by young men having some pretence to + gentility, the poverty of the country of Scotland, the national + disposition to wandering and to adventure, all conduced to lead the Scots + abroad into the military service of countries which were at war with each + other. They were distinguished on the Continent by their bravery; but in + adopting the trade of mercenary soldiers, they necessarily injured their + national character. The tincture of learning, which most of them + possessed, degenerated into pedantry; their good breeding became mere + ceremonial; their fear of dishonour no longer kept them aloof from that + which was really unworthy, but was made to depend on certain punctilious + observances totally apart from that which was in itself deserving of + praise. A cavalier of honour, in search of his fortune, might, for + example, change his service as he would his shirt, fight, like the doughty + Captain Dalgetty, in one cause after another, without regard to the + justice of the quarrel, and might plunder the peasantry subjected to him + by the fate of war with the most unrelenting rapacity; but he must beware + how he sustained the slightest reproach, even from a clergyman, if it had + regard to neglect on the score of duty. The following occurrence will + prove the truth of what I mean:— + </p> + <p> + “Here I must not forget the memory of one preacher, Master William + Forbesse, a preacher for souldiers, yea, and a captaine in neede to leade + souldiers on a good occasion, being full of courage, with discretion and + good conduct, beyond some captaines I have knowne, that were not so + capable as he. At this time he not onely prayed for us, but went on with + us, to remarke, as I thinke, men’s carriage; and having found a sergeant + neglecting his dutie and his honour at such a time (whose name I will not + expresse), having chidden him, did promise to reveale him unto me, as he + did after their service. The sergeant being called before me, and accused, + did deny his accusation, alleaging, if he were no pasteur that had + alleaged it, he would not lie under the injury, The preacher offered to + fight with him, [in proof] that it was truth he had spoken of him; + whereupon I cashiered the sergeant, and gave his place to a worthier, + called Mungo Gray, a gentleman of good worth, and of much courage. The + sergeant being cashiered, never called Master William to account, for + which he was evill thought of; so that he retired home, and quit the + warres.” + </p> + <p> + The above quotation is taken from a work which the author repeatedly + consulted while composing the following sheets, and which is in great + measure written in the humour of Captain Dugald Dalgetty. It bears the + following formidable title:—“MONRO his Expedition with the worthy + Scots Regiment, called MacKeye’s Regiment, levied in August 1626, by Sir + Donald MacKeye Lord Rees Colonel, for his Majestie’s service of Denmark, + and reduced after the battle of Nerling, in September 1634, at Wormes, in + the Palz: Discharged in several duties and observations of service, first, + under the magnanimous King of Denmark, during his wars against the Empire; + afterwards under the invincible King of Sweden, during his Majestie’s + lifetime; and since under the Director-General, the Rex-Chancellor + Oxensterne, and his Generals: collected and gathered together, at spare + hours, by Colonel Robert Monro, as First Lieutenant under the said + Regiment, to the noble and worthy Captain Thomas MacKenzie of Kildon, + brother to the noble Lord, the Lord Earl of Seaforth, for the use of all + noble Cavaliers favouring the laudable profession of arms. To which is + annexed, the Abridgement of Exercise, and divers Practical Observations + for the Younger Officer, his consideration. Ending with the Soldier’s + Meditations on going on Service.”—London, 1637. + </p> + <p> + Another worthy of the same school, and nearly the same views of the + military character, is Sir James Turner, a soldier of fortune, who rose to + considerable rank in the reign of Charles II., had a command in Galloway + and Dumfries-shire, for the suppression of conventicles, and was made + prisoner by the insurgent Covenanters in that rising which was followed by + the battle of Pentland. Sir James is a person even of superior pretensions + to Lieutenant-Colonel Monro, having written a Military Treatise on the + Pike-Exercise, called “Pallas Armata.” Moreover, he was educated at + Glasgow College, though he escaped to become an Ensign in the German wars, + instead of taking his degree of Master of Arts at that learned seminary. + </p> + <p> + In latter times, he was author of several discourses on historical and + literary subjects, from which the Bannatyne Club have extracted and + printed such passages as concern his Life and Times, under the title of + SIR JAMES TURNER’S MEMOIRS. From this curious book I extract the following + passage, as an example of how Captain Dalgetty might have recorded such an + incident had he kept a journal, or, to give it a more just character, it + is such as the genius of De Foe would have devised, to give the minute and + distinguishing features of truth to a fictitious narrative:— + </p> + <p> + “Heere I will set doun ane accident befell me; for thogh it was not a very + strange one, yet it was a very od one in all its parts. My tuo brigads lay + in a village within halfe a mile of Applebie; my own quarter was in a + gentleman’s house, ho was a Ritmaster, and at that time with Sir + Marmaduke; his wife keepd her chamber readie to be brought to bed. The + castle being over, and Lambert farre enough, I resolved to goe to bed + everie night, haveing had fatigue enough before. ‘The first night I sleepd + well enough; and riseing nixt morning, I misd one linnen stockine, one + halfe silke one, and one boothose, the accoustrement under a boote for one + leg; neither could they be found for any search. Being provided of more of + the same kind, I made myselfe reddie, and rode to the head-quarters. At my + returne, I could heare no news of my stockins. That night I went to bed, + and nixt morning found myselfe just so used; missing the three stockins + for one leg onlie, the other three being left intire as they were the day + before. A narrower search then the first was made, bot without successe. I + had yet in reserve one paire of whole stockings, and a paire of boothose, + greater then the former. These I put on my legs. The third morning I found + the same usage, the stockins for one leg onlie left me. It was time for me + then, and my servants too, to imagine it must be rats that had shard my + stockins so inequallie with me; and this the mistress of the house knew + well enough, but would not tell it me. The roome, which was a low parlour, + being well searched with candles, the top of my great boothose was found + at a hole, in which they had drawne all the rest. I went abroad and + ordered the boards to be raised, to see how the rats had disposed of my + moveables. The mistress sent a servant of her oune to be present at this + action, which she knew concerned her. One board being bot a litle opend, a + litle boy of mine thrust in his hand, and fetchd with him foure and + tuentie old peeces of gold, and one angell. The servant of the house + affirmed it appertained to his mistres. The boy bringing the gold to me, I + went immediatlie to the gentlewomans chamber, and told her, it was + probable Lambert haveing quarterd in that house, as indeed he had, some of + his servants might have hid that gold; and if so, it was lawfullie mine; + bot if she could make it appeare it belongd to her, I should immediatlie + give it her. The poore gentlewoman told me with many teares, that her + husband being none of the frugallest men (and indeed he was a + spendthrift), she had hid that gold without his, knowledge, to make use of + it as she had occasion, especiallie when she lay in; and conjured me, as I + lovd the King (for whom her husband and she had suffered much), not to + detaine her gold. She said, if there was either more or lesse then foure + and tuentie whole peeces, and two halfe ones, it sould be none of hers; + and that they were put by her in a red velvet purse. After I had given her + assureance of her gold, a new search is made, the other angell is found, + the velvet purse all gnawd in bits, as my stockins were, and the gold + instantlie restord to the gentlewoman. I have often heard that the eating + or gnawing of cloths by rats is ominous, and portends some mischance to + fall on those to whom the cloths belong. I thank God I was never addicted + to such divinations, or heeded them. It is true, that more misfortunes + then one fell on me shortlie after; bot I am sure I could have better + forseene them myselfe then rats or any such vermine, and yet did it not. I + have heard indeed many fine stories told of rats, how they abandon houses + and ships, when the first are to be burnt and the second dround. + Naturalists say they are very sagacious creatures, and I beleeve they are + so; bot I shall never be of the opinion they can forsee future + contingencies, which I suppose the divell himselfe can neither forknow nor + fortell; these being things which the Almightie hath keepd hidden in the + bosome of his divine prescience. And whither the great God hath + preordained or predestinated these things, which to us are contingent, to + fall out by ane uncontrollable and unavoidable necessitie, is a question + not yet decided.” [SIR JAMES TURNER’S MEMOIRS, Bannatyne edition, p. 59.] + </p> + <p> + In quoting these ancient authorities, I must not forget the more modern + sketch of a Scottish soldier of the old fashion, by a masterhand, in the + character of Lesmahagow, since the existence of that doughty Captain alone + must deprive the present author of all claim to absolute originality. + Still Dalgetty, as the production of his own fancy, has been so far a + favourite with its parent, that he has fallen into the error of assigning + to the Captain too prominent a part in the story. This is the opinion of a + critic who encamps on the highest pinnacles of literature; and the author + is so far fortunate in having incurred his censure, that it gives his + modesty a decent apology for quoting the praise, which it would have + ill-befited him to bring forward in an unmingled state. The passage occurs + in the EDINBURGH REVIEW, No. 55, containing a criticism on IVANHOE:— + </p> + <p> + “There is too much, perhaps, of Dalgetty,—or, rather, he engrosses + too great a proportion of the work,—for, in himself, we think he is + uniformly entertaining;—and the author has nowhere shown more + affinity to that matchless spirit who could bring out his Falstaffs and + his Pistols, in act after act, and play after play, and exercise them + every time with scenes of unbounded loquacity, without either exhausting + their humour, or varying a note from its characteristic tone, than in his + large and reiterated specimens of the eloquence of the redoubted + Ritt-master. The general idea of the character is familiar to our comic + dramatists after the Restoration—and may be said in some measure to + be compounded of Captain Fluellen and Bobadil;—but the ludicrous + combination of the SOLDADO with the Divinity student of Mareschal-College, + is entirely original; and the mixture of talent, selfishness, courage, + coarseness, and conceit, was never so happily exemplified. Numerous as his + speeches are, there is not one that is not characteristic—and, to + our taste, divertingly ludicrous.” + </p> + <p> + POSTSCRIPT. + </p> + <p> + While these pages were passing through the press, the author received a + letter from the present Robert Stewart of Ardvoirlich, favouring him with + the account of the unhappy slaughter of Lord Kilpont, differing from, and + more probable than, that given by Bishop Wishart, whose narrative infers + either insanity or the blackest treachery on the part of James Stewart of + Ardvoirlich, the ancestor of the present family of that name. It is but + fair to give the entire communication as received from my respected + correspondent, which is more minute than the histories of the period. + </p> + <p> + “Although I have not the honour of being personally known to you, I hope + you will excuse the liberty I now take, in addressing you on the subject + of a transaction more than once alluded to by you, in which an ancestor of + mine was unhappily concerned. I allude to the slaughter of Lord Kilpont, + son of the Earl of Airth and Monteith, in 1644, by James Stewart of + Ardvoirlich. As the cause of this unhappy event, and the quarrel which led + to it, have never been correctly stated in any history of the period in + which it took place, I am induced, in consequence of your having, in the + second series of your admirable Tales on the History of Scotland, adopted + Wishart’s version of the transaction, and being aware that your having + done so will stamp it with an authenticity which it does not merit, and + with a view, as far as possible, to do justice to the memory of my + unfortunate ancestor, to send you the account of this affair as it has + been handed down in the family. + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img src="images/0681m.jpg" style="width:100%;" alt="0681m " /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0681.jpg" style="width:100%;" ><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + “James Stewart of Ardvoirlich, who lived in the early part of the 17th + century, and who was the unlucky cause of the slaughter of Lord Kilpont, + as before mentioned, was appointed to the command of one of several + independent companies raised in the Highlands at the commencement of the + troubles in the reign of Charles I.; another of these companies was under + the command of Lord Kilpont, and a strong intimacy, strengthened by a + distant relationship, subsisted between them. When Montrose raised the + royal standard, Ardvoirlich was one of the first to declare for him, and + is said to have been a principal means of bringing over Lord Kilpont to + the same cause; and they accordingly, along with Sir John Drummond and + their respective followers, joined Montrose, as recorded by Wishart, at + Buchanty. While they served together, so strong was their intimacy, that + they lived and slept in the same tent. + </p> + <p> + “In the meantime, Montrose had been joined by the Irish under the command + of Alexander Macdonald; these, on their march to join Montrose, had + committed some excesses on lands belonging to Ardvoirlich, which lay in + the line of their march from the west coast. Of this Ardvoirlich + complained to Montrose, who, probably wishing as much as possible to + conciliate his new allies, treated it in rather an evasive manner. + Ardvoirlich, who was a man of violent passions, having failed to receive + such satisfaction as he required, challenged Macdonald to single combat. + Before they met, however, Montrose, on the information and by advice, as + it is said, of Kilpont, laid them both under arrest. Montrose, seeing the + evils of such a feud at such a critical time, effected a sort of + reconciliation between them, and forced them to shake hands in his + presence; when, it was said, that Ardvoirlich, who was a very powerful + man, took such a hold of Macdonald’s hand as to make the blood start from + his fingers. Still, it would appear, Ardvoirlich was by no means + reconciled. + </p> + <p> + “A few days after the battle of Tippermuir, when Montrose with his army + was encamped at Collace, an entertainment was given by him to his + officers, in honour of the victory he had obtained, and Kilpont and his + comrade Ardvoirlich were of the party. After returning to their quarters, + Ardvoirlich, who seemed still to brood over his quarrel with Macdonald, + and being heated with drink, began to blame Lord Kilpont for the part he + had taken in preventing his obtaining redress, and reflecting against + Montrose for not allowing him what he considered proper reparation. + Kilpont of course defended the conduct of himself and his relative + Montrose, till their argument came to high words; and finally, from the + state they were both in, by an easy transition, to blows, when + Ardvoirlich, with his dirk, struck Kilpont dead on the spot. He + immediately fled, and under the cover of a thick mist escaped pursuit, + leaving his eldest son Henry, who had been mortally wounded at Tippermuir, + on his deathbed. + </p> + <p> + “His followers immediately withdrew from Montrose, and no course remained + for him but to throw himself into the arms of the opposite faction, by + whom he was well received. His name is frequently mentioned in Leslie’s + campaigns, and on more than one occasion he is mentioned as having + afforded protection to several of his former friends through his interest + with Leslie, when the King’s cause became desperate. + </p> + <p> + “The foregoing account of this unfortunate transaction, I am well aware, + differs materially from the account given by Wishart, who alleges that + Stewart had laid a plot for the assassination of Montrose, and that he + murdered Lord Kilpont in consequence of his refusal to participate in his + design. Now, I may be allowed to remark, that besides Wishart having + always been regarded as a partial historian, and very questionable + authority on any subject connected with the motives or conduct of those + who differed from him in opinion, that even had Stewart formed such a + design, Kilpont, from his name and connexions, was likely to be the very + last man of whom Stewart would choose to make a confidant and accomplice. + On the other hand, the above account, though never, that I am aware, + before hinted at, has been a constant tradition in the family; and, from + the comparative recent date of the transaction, and the sources from which + the tradition has been derived, I have no reason to doubt its perfect + authenticity. It was most circumstantially detailed as above, given to my + father, Mr. Stewart, now of Ardvoirlich, many years ago, by a man nearly + connected with the family, who lived to the age of 100. This man was a + great-grandson of James Stewart, by a natural son John, of whom many + stories are still current in this country, under his appellation of JOHN + DHU MHOR. This John was with his father at the time, and of course was a + witness of the whole transaction; he lived till a considerable time after + the Revolution, and it was from him that my father’s informant, who was a + man before his grandfather, John dhu Mhor’s death, received the + information as above stated. + </p> + <p> + “I have many apologies to offer for trespassing so long on your patience; + but I felt a natural desire, if possible, to correct what I conceive to be + a groundless imputation on the memory of my ancestor, before it shall come + to be considered as a matter of History. That he was a man of violent + passions and singular temper, I do not pretend to deny, as many traditions + still current in this country amply verify; but that he was capable of + forming a design to assassinate Montrose, the whole tenor of his former + conduct and principles contradict. That he was obliged to join the + opposite party, was merely a matter of safety, while Kilpont had so many + powerful friends and connexions able and ready to avenge his death. + </p> + <p> + “I have only to add, that you have my full permission to make what use of + this communication you please, and either to reject it altogether, or + allow it such credit as you think it deserves; and I shall be ready at all + times to furnish you with any further information on this subject which + you may require, and which it may be in my power to afford. + </p> + <p> + “ARDVOIRLICH, 15TH JANUARY, 1830.” + </p> + <p> + The publication of a statement so particular, and probably so correct, is + a debt due to the memory of James Stewart; the victim, it would seem, of + his own violent passions, but perhaps incapable of an act of premeditated + treachery. + </p> + <p> + ABBOTSFORD, 1ST AUGUST, 1830. <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + II. INTRODUCTION (Supplement). + </h2> + <p> + Sergeant More M’Alpin was, during his residence among us, one of the most + honoured inhabitants of Gandercleugh. No one thought of disputing his + title to the great leathern chair on the “cosiest side of the chimney,” in + the common room of the Wallace Arms, on a Saturday evening. No less would + our sexton, John Duirward, have held it an unlicensed intrusion, to suffer + any one to induct himself into the corner of the left-hand pew nearest to + the pulpit, which the Sergeant regularly occupied on Sundays. There he + sat, his blue invalid uniform brushed with the most scrupulous accuracy. + Two medals of merit displayed at his button-hole, as well as the empty + sleeve which should have been occupied by his right arm, bore evidence of + his hard and honourable service. His weatherbeaten features, his grey hair + tied in a thin queue in the military fashion of former days, and the right + side of his head a little turned up, the better to catch the sound of the + clergyman’s voice, were all marks of his profession and infirmities. + Beside him sat his sister Janet, a little neat old woman, with a Highland + curch and tartan plaid, watching the very looks of her brother, to her the + greatest man upon earth, and actively looking out for him, in his + silver-clasped Bible, the texts which the minister quoted or expounded. + </p> + <p> + I believe it was the respect that was universally paid to this worthy + veteran by all ranks in Gandercleugh which induced him to choose our + village for his residence, for such was by no means his original + intention. + </p> + <p> + He had risen to the rank of sergeant-major of artillery, by hard service + in various quarters of the world, and was reckoned one of the most tried + and trusty men of the Scotch Train. A ball, which shattered his arm in a + peninsular campaign, at length procured him an honourable discharge. with + an allowance from Chelsea, and a handsome gratuity from the patriotic + fund. Moreover, Sergeant More M’Alpin had been prudent as well as valiant; + and, from prize-money and savings, had become master of a small sum in the + three per cent consols. + </p> + <p> + He retired with the purpose of enjoying this income in the wild Highland + glen, in which, when a boy, he had herded black cattle and goats, ere the + roll of the drum had made him cock his bonnet an inch higher, and follow + its music for nearly forty years. To his recollection, this retired spot + was unparalleled in beauty by the richest scenes he had visited in his + wanderings. Even the Happy Valley of Rasselas would have sunk into nothing + upon the comparison. He came—he revisited the loved scene; it was + but a sterile glen, surrounded with rude crags, and traversed by a + northern torrent. This was not the worst. The fires had been quenched upon + thirty hearths—of the cottage of his fathers he could but + distinguish a few rude stones—the language was almost extinguished—the + ancient race from which he boasted his descent had found a refuge beyond + the Atlantic. One southland farmer, three grey-plaided shepherds, and six + dogs, now tenanted the whole glen, which in his youth had maintained, in + content, if not in competence, upwards of two hundred inhabitants. + </p> + <p> + In the house of the new tenant, Sergeant M’Alpin found, however, an + unexpected source of pleasure, and a means of employing his social + affections. His sister Janet had fortunately entertained so strong a + persuasion that her brother would one day return, that she had refused to + accompany her kinsfolk upon their emigration. Nay, she had consented, + though not without a feeling of degradation, to take service with the + intruding Lowlander, who, though a Saxon, she said, had proved a kind man + to her. This unexpected meeting with his sister seemed a cure for all the + disappointments which it had been Sergeant More’s lot to encounter, + although it was not without a reluctant tear that he heard told, as a + Highland woman alone could ten it, the story of the expatriation of his + kinsmen. + </p> + <p> + She narrated at great length the vain offers they had made of advanced + rent, the payment of which must have reduced them to the extremity of + poverty, which they were yet contented to face, for permission to live and + die on their native soil. Nor did Janet forget the portents which had + announced the departure of the Celtic race, and the arrival of the + strangers. For two years previous to the emigration, when the night wind + howled dawn the pass of Balachra, its notes were distinctly modelled to + the tune of “HA TIL MI TULIDH” (we return no more), with which the + emigrants usually bid farewell to their native shores. The uncouth cries + of the Southland shepherds, and the barking of their dogs, were often + heard in the midst of the hills long before their actual arrival. A bard, + the last of his race, had commemorated the expulsion of the natives of the + glen in a tune, which brought tears into the aged eyes of the veteran, and + of which the first stanza may be thus rendered:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Woe, woe, son of the Lowlander, + Why wilt thou leave thine own bonny Border? + Why comes thou hither, disturbing the Highlander, + Wasting the glen that was once in fair order? +</pre> + <p> + What added to Sergeant More M’Alpin’s distress upon the occasion was, that + the chief by whom this change had been effected, was, by tradition and + common opinion, held to represent the ancient leaders and fathers of the + expelled fugitives; and it had hitherto been one of Sergeant More’s + principal subjects of pride to prove, by genealogical deduction, in what + degree of kindred he stood to this personage. A woful change was now + wrought in his sentiments towards him. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot curse him,” he said, as he rose and strode through the room, + when Janet’s narrative was finished—“I will not curse him; he is the + descendant and representative of my fathers. But never shall mortal man + hear me name his name again.” And he kept his word; for, until his dying + day, no man heard him mention his selfish and hard-hearted chieftain. + </p> + <p> + After giving a day to sad recollections, the hardy spirit which had + carried him through so many dangers, manned the Sergeant’s bosom against + this cruel disappointment. “He would go,” he said, “to Canada to his + kinsfolk, where they had named a Transatlantic valley after the glen of + their fathers. Janet,” he said, “should kilt her coats like a leaguer + lady; d—n the distance! it was a flea’s leap to the voyages and + marches he had made on a slighter occasion.” + </p> + <p> + With this purpose he left the Highlands, and came with his sister as far + as Gandercleugh, on his way to Glasgow, to take a passage to Canada. But + winter was now set in, and as he thought it advisable to wait for a spring + passage, when the St. Lawrence should be open, he settled among us for the + few months of his stay in Britain. As we said before, the respectable old + man met with deference and attention from all ranks of society; and when + spring returned, he was so satisfied with his quarters, that he did not + renew the purpose of his voyage. Janet was afraid of the sea, and he + himself felt the infirmities of age and hard service more than he had at + first expected. And, as he confessed to the clergyman, and my worthy + principal, Mr. Cleishbotham, “it was better staying with kend friends, + than going farther, and faring worse.” + </p> + <p> + He therefore established himself and his domicile at Gandercleugh, to the + great satisfaction, as we have already said, of all its inhabitants, to + whom he became, in respect of military intelligence, and able commentaries + upon the newspapers, gazettes, and bulletins, a very oracle, explanatory + of all martial events, past, present, or to come. + </p> + <p> + It is true, the Sergeant had his inconsistencies. He was a steady + jacobite, his father and his four uncles having been out in the + forty-five; but he was a no less steady adherent of King George, in whose + service he had made his little fortune, and lost three brothers; so that + you were in equal danger to displease him, in terming Prince Charles, the + Pretender, or by saying anything derogatory to the dignity of King George. + Further, it must not be denied, that when the day of receiving his + dividends came round, the Sergeant was apt to tarry longer at the Wallace + Arms of an evening, than was consistent with strict temperance, or indeed + with his worldly interest; for upon these occasions, his compotators + sometimes contrived to flatter his partialities by singing jacobite songs, + and drinking confusion to Bonaparte, and the health of the Duke of + Wellington, until the Sergeant was not only flattered into paying the + whole reckoning, but occasionally induced to lend small sums to his + interested companions. After such sprays, as he called them, were over, + and his temper once more cool, he seldom failed to thank God, and the Duke + of York, who had made it much more difficult for an old soldier to ruin + himself by his folly, than had been the case in his younger days. + </p> + <p> + It was not on such occasions that I made a part of Sergeant More M’Alpin’s + society. But often, when my leisure would permit, I used to seek him, on + what he called his morning and evening parade, on which, when the weather + was fair, he appeared as regularly as if summoned by tuck of drum. His + morning walk was beneath the elms in the churchyard; “for death,” he said, + “had been his next-door neighbour for so many years, that he had no + apology for dropping the acquaintance.” His evening promenade was on the + bleaching-green by the river-side, where he was sometimes to be seen on an + open bench, with spectacles on nose, conning over the newspapers to a + circle of village politicians, explaining military terms, and aiding the + comprehension of his hearers by lines drawn on the ground with the end of + his rattan. On other occasions, he was surrounded by a bevy of + school-boys, whom he sometimes drilled to the manual, and sometimes, with + less approbation on the part of their parents, instructed in the mystery + of artificial fire-works; for in the case of public rejoicings, the + Sergeant was pyrotechnist (as the Encyclopedia calls it) to the village of + Gandercleugh. + </p> + <p> + It was in his morning walk that I most frequently met with the veteran. + And I can hardly yet look upon the village footpath, overshadowed by the + row of lofty elms, without thinking I see his upright form advancing + towards me with measured step, and his cane advanced, ready to pay me the + military salute—but he is dead, and sleeps with his faithful Janet, + under the third of those very trees, counting from the stile at the west + corner of the churchyard. + </p> + <p> + The delight which I had in Sergeant M’Alpin’s conversation, related not + only to his own adventures, of which he had encountered many in the course + of a wandering life, but also to his recollection of numerous Highland + traditions, in which his youth had been instructed by his parents, and of + which he would in after life have deemed it a kind of heresy to question + the authenticity. Many of these belonged to the wars of Montrose, in which + some of the Sergeant’s ancestry had, it seems, taken a distinguished part. + It has happened, that, although these civil commotions reflect the highest + honour upon the Highlanders, being indeed the first occasion upon which + they showed themselves superior, or even equal to their Low-country + neighbours in military encounters, they have been less commemorated among + them than any one would have expected, judging from the abundance of + traditions which they have preserved upon less interesting subjects. It + was, therefore, with great pleasure, that I extracted from my military + friend some curious particulars respecting that time; they are mixed with + that measure of the wild and wonderful which belongs to the period and the + narrator, but which I do not in the least object to the reader’s treating + with disbelief, providing he will be so good as to give implicit credit to + the natural events of the story, which, like all those which I have had + the honour to put under his notice, actually rest upon a basis of truth. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + III. A LEGEND OF MONTROSE. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Such as do build their faith upon + The holy text of pike and gun, + Decide all controversies by + Infallible artillery, + And prove their doctrine orthodox, + By apostolic blows and knocks.—BUTLER. +</pre> + <p> + It was during the period of that great and bloody Civil War which agitated + Britain during the seventeenth century, that our tale has its + commencement. Scotland had as yet remained free from the ravages of + intestine war, although its inhabitants were much divided in political + opinions; and many of them, tired of the control of the Estates of + Parliament, and disapproving of the bold measure which they had adopted, + by sending into England a large army to the assistance of the Parliament, + were determined on their part to embrace the earliest opportunity of + declaring for the King, and making such a diversion as should at least + compel the recall of General Leslie’s army out of England, if it did not + recover a great part of Scotland to the King’s allegiance. This plan was + chiefly adopted by the northern nobility, who had resisted with great + obstinacy the adoption of the Solemn League and Covenant, and by many of + the chiefs of the Highland clans, who conceived their interest and + authority to be connected with royalty, who had, besides, a decided + aversion to the Presbyterian form of religion, and who, finally, were in + that half savage state of society, in which war is always more welcome + than peace. + </p> + <p> + Great commotions were generally expected to arise from these concurrent + causes; and the trade of incursion and depredation, which the Scotch + Highlanders at all times exercised upon the Lowlands, began to assume a + more steady, avowed, and systematic form, as part of a general military + system. + </p> + <p> + Those at the head of affairs were not insensible to the peril of the + moment, and anxiously made preparations to meet and to repel it. They + considered, however, with satisfaction, that no leader or name of + consequence had as yet appeared to assemble an army of royalists, or even + to direct the efforts of those desultory bands, whom love of plunder, + perhaps, as much as political principle, had hurried into measures of + hostility. It was generally hoped that the quartering a sufficient number + of troops in the Lowlands adjacent to the Highland line, would have the + effect of restraining the mountain chieftains; while the power of various + barons in the north, who had espoused the Covenant, as, for example, the + Earl Mareschal, the great families of Forbes, Leslie, and Irvine, the + Grants, and other Presbyterian clans, might counterbalance and bridle, not + only the strength of the Ogilvies and other cavaliers of Angus and + Kincardine, but even the potent family of the Gordons, whose extensive + authority was only equalled by their extreme dislike to the Presbyterian + model. + </p> + <p> + In the West Highlands the ruling party numbered many enemies; but the + power of these disaffected clans was supposed to be broken, and the spirit + of their chieftains intimidated, by the predominating influence of the + Marquis of Argyle, upon whom the confidence of the Convention of Estates + was reposed with the utmost security; and whose power in the Highlands, + already exorbitant, had been still farther increased by concessions + extorted from the King at the last pacification. It was indeed well known + that Argyle was a man rather of political enterprise than personal + courage, and better calculated to manage an intrigue of state, than to + control the tribes of hostile mountaineers; yet the numbers of his clan, + and the spirit of the gallant gentlemen by whom it was led, might, it was + supposed, atone for the personal deficiencies of their chief; and as the + Campbells had already severely humbled several of the neighbouring tribes, + it was supposed these would not readily again provoke an encounter with a + body so powerful. + </p> + <p> + Thus having at their command the whole west and south of Scotland, + indisputably the richest part of the kingdom,—Fifeshire being in a + peculiar manner their own, and possessing many and powerful friends even + north of the Forth and Tay,—the Scottish Convention of Estates saw + no danger sufficient to induce them to alter the line of policy they had + adopted, or to recall from the assistance of their brethren of the English + Parliament that auxiliary army of twenty thousand men, by means of which + accession of strength, the King’s party had been reduced to the defensive, + when in full career of triumph and success. + </p> + <p> + The causes which moved the Convention of Estates at this time to take such + an immediate and active interest in the civil war of England, are detailed + in our historians, but may be here shortly recapitulated. They had indeed + no new injury or aggression to complain of at the hand of the King, and + the peace which had been made between Charles and his subjects of Scotland + had been carefully observed; but the Scottish rulers were well aware that + this peace had been extorted from the King, as well by the influence of + the parliamentary party in England, as by the terror of their own arms. It + is true, King Charles had since then visited the capital of his ancient + kingdom, had assented to the new organization of the church, and had + distributed honours and rewards among the leaders of the party which had + shown themselves most hostile to his interests; but it was suspected that + distinctions so unwillingly conferred would be resumed as soon as + opportunity offered. The low state of the English Parliament was seen in + Scotland with deep apprehension; and it was concluded, that should Charles + triumph by force of arms against his insurgent subjects of England, he + would not be long in exacting from the Scotch the vengeance which he might + suppose due to those who had set the example of taking up arms against + him. Such was the policy of the measure which dictated the sending the + auxiliary army into England; and it was avowed in a manifesto explanatory + of their reasons for giving this timely and important aid to the English + Parliament. The English Parliament, they said, had been already friendly + to them, and might be so again; whereas the King, although he had so + lately established religion among them according to their desires, had + given them no ground to confide in his royal declaration, seeing they had + found his promises and actions inconsistent with each other. “Our + conscience,” they concluded, “and God, who is greater than our conscience, + beareth us record, that we aim altogether at the glory of God, peace of + both nations, and honour of the King, in suppressing and punishing in a + legal way, those who are the troublers of Israel, the firebrands of hell, + the Korahs, the Balaams, the Doegs, the Rabshakehs, the Hamans, the + Tobiahs, the Sanballats of our time, which done, we are satisfied. Neither + have we begun to use a military expedition to England as a mean for + compassing those our pious ends, until all other means which we could + think upon have failed us: and this alone is left to us, ULTIMUM ET UNICUM + REMEDIUM, the last and only remedy.” + </p> + <p> + Leaving it to casuists to determine whether one contracting party is + justified in breaking a solemn treaty, upon the suspicion that, in certain + future contingencies, it might be infringed by the other, we shall proceed + to mention two other circumstances that had at least equal influence with + the Scottish rulers and nation, with any doubts which they entertained of + the King’s good faith. + </p> + <p> + The first of these was the nature and condition of their army; headed by a + poor and discontented nobility, under whom it was officered chiefly by + Scottish soldiers of fortune, who had served in the German wars until they + had lost almost all distinction of political principle, and even of + country, in the adoption of the mercenary faith, that a soldier’s + principal duty was fidelity to the state or sovereign from whom he + received his pay, without respect either to the justice of the quarrel, or + to their own connexion with either of the contending parties. To men of + this stamp, Grotius applies the severe character—NULLUM VITAE GENUS + ET IMPROBIUS, QUAM EORUM, QUI SINE CAUSAE RESPECTU MERCEDE CONDUCTI, + MILITANT. To these mercenary soldiers, as well as to the needy gentry with + whom they were mixed in command, and who easily imbibed the same opinions, + the success of the late short invasion of England in 1641 was a sufficient + reason for renewing so profitable an experiment. The good pay and free + quarters of England had made a feeling impression upon the recollection of + these military adventurers, and the prospect of again levying eight + hundred and fifty pounds a-day, came in place of all arguments, whether of + state or of morality. + </p> + <p> + Another cause inflamed the minds of the nation at large, no less than the + tempting prospect of the wealth of England animated the soldiery. So much + had been written and said on either side concerning the form of church + government, that it had become a matter of infinitely more consequence in + the eyes of the multitude than the doctrines of that gospel which both + churches had embraced. The Prelatists and Presbyterians of the more + violent kind became as illiberal as the Papists, and would scarcely allow + the possibility of salvation beyond the pale of their respective churches. + It was in vain remarked to these zealots, that had the Author of our holy + religion considered any peculiar form of church government as essential to + salvation, it would have been revealed with the same precision as under + the Old Testament dispensation. Both parties continued as violent as if + they could have pleaded the distinct commands of Heaven to justify their + intolerance, Laud, in the days of his domination, had fired the train, by + attempting to impose upon the Scottish people church ceremonies foreign to + their habits and opinions. The success with which this had been resisted, + and the Presbyterian model substituted in its place, had endeared the + latter to the nation, as the cause in which they had triumphed. The Solemn + League and Covenant, adopted with such zeal by the greater part of the + kingdom, and by them forced, at the sword’s point, upon the others, bore + in its bosom, as its principal object, the establishing the doctrine and + discipline of the Presbyterian church, and the putting down all error and + heresy; and having attained for their own country an establishment of this + golden candlestick, the Scots became liberally and fraternally anxious to + erect the same in England. This they conceived might be easily attained by + lending to the Parliament the effectual assistance of the Scottish forces. + The Presbyterians, a numerous and powerful party in the English + Parliament, had hitherto taken the lead in opposition to the King; while + the Independents and other sectaries, who afterwards, under Cromwell, + resumed the power of the sword, and overset the Presbyterian model both in + Scotland and England, were as yet contented to lurk under the shelter of + the wealthier and more powerful party. The prospect of bringing to a + uniformity the kingdoms of England and Scotland in discipline and worship, + seemed therefore as fair as it was desirable. + </p> + <p> + The celebrated Sir Henry Vane, one of the commissioners who negotiated the + alliance betwixt England and Scotland, saw the influence which this bait + had upon the spirits of those with whom he dealt; and although himself a + violent Independent, he contrived at once to gratify and to elude the + eager desires of the Presbyterians, by qualifying the obligation to reform + the Church of England, as a change to be executed “according to the word + of God, and the best reformed churches.” Deceived by their own eagerness, + themselves entertaining no doubts on the JUS DIVINUM of their own + ecclesiastical establishments, and not holding it possible such doubts + could be adopted by others, the Convention of Estates and the Kirk of + Scotland conceived, that such expressions necessarily inferred the + establishment of Presbytery; nor were they undeceived, until, when their + help was no longer needful, the sectaries gave them to understand, that + the phrase might be as well applied to Independency, or any other mode of + worship, which those who were at the head of affairs at the time might + consider as agreeable “to the word of God, and the practice of the + reformed churches.” Neither were the outwitted Scottish less astonished to + find, that the designs of the English sectaries struck against the + monarchial constitution of Britain, it having been their intention to + reduce the power of the King, but by no means to abrogate the office. They + fared, however, in this respect, like rash physicians, who commence by + over-physicking a patient, until he is reduced to a state of weakness, + from which cordials are afterwards unable to recover him. + </p> + <p> + But these events were still in the womb of futurity. As yet the Scottish + Parliament held their engagement with England consistent with justice, + prudence, and piety, and their military undertaking seemed to succeed to + their very wish. The junction of the Scottish army with those of Fairfax + and Manchester, enabled the Parliamentary forces to besiege York, and to + fight the desperate action of Long-Marston Moor, in which Prince Rupert + and the Marquis of Newcastle were defeated. The Scottish auxiliaries, + indeed, had less of the glory of this victory than their countrymen could + desire. David Leslie, with their cavalry, fought bravely, and to them, as + well as to Cromwell’s brigade of Independents, the honour of the day + belonged; but the old Earl of Leven, the covenanting general, was driven + out of the field by the impetuous charge of Prince Rupert, and was thirty + miles distant, in full flight towards Scotland, when he was overtaken by + the news that his party had gained a complete victory. + </p> + <p> + The absence of these auxiliary troops, upon this crusade for the + establishment of Presbyterianism in England, had considerably diminished + the power of the Convention of Estates in Scotland, and had given rise to + those agitations among the anti-covenanters, which we have noticed at the + beginning of this chapter. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + His mother could for him as cradle set + Her husband’s rusty iron corselet; + Whose jangling sound could hush her babe to rest, + That never plain’d of his uneasy nest; + Then did he dream of dreary wars at hand, + And woke, and fought, and won, ere he could stand.—HALL’S SATIRES +</pre> + <p> + It was towards the close of a summer’s evening, during the anxious period + which we have commemorated, that a young gentleman of quality, well + mounted and armed, and accompanied by two servants, one of whom led a + sumpter horse, rode slowly up one of those steep passes, by which the + Highlands are accessible from the Lowlands of Perthshire. [The beautiful + pass of Leny, near Callander, in Monteith, would, in some respects, answer + this description.] Their course had lain for some time along the banks of + a lake, whose deep waters reflected the crimson beams of the western sun. + The broken path which they pursued with some difficulty, was in some + places shaded by ancient birches and oak-trees, and in others overhung by + fragments of huge rock. Elsewhere, the hill, which formed the northern + side of this beautiful sheet of water, arose in steep, but less + precipitous acclivity, and was arrayed in heath of the darkest purple. In + the present times, a scene so romantic would have been judged to possess + the highest charms for the traveller; but those who journey in days of + doubt and dread, pay little attention to picturesque scenery. + </p> + <p> + The master kept, as often as the wood permitted, abreast of one or both of + his domestics, and seemed earnestly to converse with them, probably + because the distinctions of rank are readily set aside among those who are + made to be sharers of common danger. The dispositions of the leading men + who inhabit this wild country, and the probability of their taking part in + the political convulsions that were soon expected, were the subjects of + their conversation. + </p> + <p> + They had not advanced above half way up the lake, and the young gentleman + was pointing to his attendants the spot where their intended road turned + northwards, and, leaving the verge of the loch, ascended a ravine to the + right hand, when they discovered a single horseman coming down the shore, + as if to meet them. The gleam of the sunbeams upon his head-piece and + corslet showed that he was in armour, and the purpose of the other + travellers required that he should not pass unquestioned. “We must know + who he is,” said the young gentleman, “and whither he is going.” And + putting spurs to his horse, he rode forward as fast as the rugged state of + the road would permit, followed by his two attendants, until he reached + the point where the pass along the side of the lake was intersected by + that which descended from the ravine, securing thus against the + possibility of the stranger eluding them, by turning into the latter road + before they came up with him. + </p> + <p> + The single horseman had mended his pace, when he first observed the three + riders advance rapidly towards him; but when he saw them halt and form a + front, which completely occupied the path, he checked his horse, and + advanced with great deliberation; so that each party had an opportunity to + take a full survey of the other. The solitary stranger was mounted upon an + able horse, fit for military service, and for the great weight which he + had to carry, and his rider occupied his demipique, or war-saddle, with an + air that showed it was his familiar seat. He had a bright burnished + head-piece, with a plume of feathers, together with a cuirass, thick + enough to resist a musket-ball, and a back-piece of lighter materials. + These defensive arms he wore over a buff jerkin, along with a pair of + gauntlets, or steel gloves, the tops of which reached up to his elbow, and + which, like the rest of his armour, were of bright steel. At the front of + his military saddle hung a case of pistols, far beyond the ordinary size, + nearly two feet in length, and carrying bullets of twenty to the pound. A + buff belt, with a broad silver buckle, sustained on one side a long + straight double-edged broadsword, with a strong guard, and a blade + calculated either to strike or push. On the right side hung a dagger of + about eighteen inches in length; a shoulder-belt sustained at his back a + musketoon or blunderbuss, and was crossed by a bandelier containing his + charges of ammunition. Thigh-pieces of steel, then termed taslets, met the + tops of his huge jack-boots, and completed the equipage of a well-armed + trooper of the period. + </p> + <p> + The appearance of the horseman himself corresponded well with his military + equipage, to which he had the air of having been long inured. He was above + the middle size, and of strength sufficient to bear with ease the weight + of his weapons, offensive and defensive. His age might be forty and + upwards, and his countenance was that of a resolute weather-beaten + veteran, who had seen many fields, and brought away in token more than one + scar. At the distance of about thirty yards he halted and stood fast, + raised himself on his stirrups, as if to reconnoitre and ascertain the + purpose of the opposite party, and brought his musketoon under his right + arm, ready for use, if occasion should require it. In everything but + numbers, he had the advantage of those who seemed inclined to interrupt + his passage. + </p> + <p> + The leader of the party was, indeed, well mounted and clad in a buff coat, + richly embroidered, the half-military dress of the period; but his + domestics had only coarse jackets of thick felt, which could scarce be + expected to turn the edge of a sword, if wielded by a strong man; and none + of them had any weapons, save swords and pistols, without which gentlemen, + or their attendants, during those disturbed times, seldom stirred abroad. + </p> + <p> + When they had stood at gaze for about a minute, the younger gentleman gave + the challenge which was then common in the mouth of all strangers who met + in such circumstances—“For whom are you?” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me first,” answered the soldier, “for whom are you?—the + strongest party should speak first.” + </p> + <p> + “We are for God and King Charles,” answered the first speaker.—“Now + tell your faction, you know ours.” + </p> + <p> + “I am for God and my standard,” answered the single horseman. + </p> + <p> + “And for which standard?” replied the chief of the other party—“Cavalier + or Roundhead, King or Convention?” + </p> + <p> + “By my troth, sir,” answered the soldier, “I would be loath to reply to + you with an untruth, as a thing unbecoming a cavalier of fortune and a + soldier. But to answer your query with beseeming veracity, it is necessary + I should myself have resolved to whilk of the present divisions of the + kingdom I shall ultimately adhere, being a matter whereon my mind is not + as yet preceesely ascertained.” + </p> + <p> + “I should have thought,” answered the gentleman, “that, when loyalty and + religion are at stake, no gentleman or man of honour could be long in + choosing his party.” + </p> + <p> + “Truly, sir,” replied the trooper, “if ye speak this in the way of + vituperation, as meaning to impugn my honour or genteelity, I would + blithely put the same to issue, venturing in that quarrel with my single + person against you three. But if you speak it in the way of logical + ratiocination, whilk I have studied in my youth at the Mareschal-College + of Aberdeen, I am ready to prove to ye LOGICE, that my resolution to + defer, for a certain season, the taking upon me either of these quarrels, + not only becometh me as a gentleman and a man of honour, but also as a + person of sense and prudence, one imbued with humane letters in his early + youth, and who, from thenceforward, has followed the wars under the banner + of the invincible Gustavus, the Lion of the North, and under many other + heroic leaders, both Lutheran and Calvinist, Papist and Arminian.” + </p> + <p> + After exchanging a word or two with his domestics, the younger gentleman + replied, “I should be glad, sir, to have some conversation with you upon + so interesting a question, and should be proud if I can determine you in + favour of the cause I have myself espoused. I ride this evening to a + friend’s house not three miles distant, whither, if you choose to + accompany me, you shall have good quarters for the night, and free + permission to take your own road in the morning, if you then feel no + inclination to join with us.” + </p> + <p> + “Whose word am I to take for this?” answered the cautious soldier—“A + man must know his guarantee, or he may fall into an ambuscade.” + </p> + <p> + “I am called,” answered the younger stranger, “the Earl of Menteith, and, + I trust, you will receive my honour as a sufficient security.” + </p> + <p> + “A worthy nobleman,” answered the soldier, “whose parole is not to be + doubted.” With one motion he replaced his musketoon at his back, and with + another made his military salute to the young nobleman, and continuing to + talk as he rode forward to join him—“And, I trust,” said he, “my own + assurance, that I will be BON CAMARADO to your lordship in peace or in + peril, during the time we shall abide together, will not be altogether + vilipended in these doubtful times, when, as they say, a man’s head is + safer in a steel-cap than in a marble palace.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, sir,” said Lord Menteith, “that to judge from your + appearance, I most highly value the advantage of your escort; but, I + trust, we shall have no occasion for any exercise of valour, as I expect + to conduct you to good and friendly quarters.” + </p> + <p> + “Good quarters, my lord,” replied the soldier, “are always acceptable, and + are only to be postponed to good pay or good booty,—not to mention + the honour of a cavalier, or the needful points of commanded duty. And + truly, my lord, your noble proffer is not the less welcome, in that I knew + not preceesely this night where I and my poor companion” (patting his + horse), “were to find lodgments.” + </p> + <p> + “May I be permitted to ask, then,” said Lord Menteith, “to whom I have the + good fortune to stand quarter-master?” + </p> + <p> + “Truly, my lord,” said the trooper, “my name is Dalgetty—Dugald + Dalgetty, Ritt-master Dugald Dalgetty of Drumthwacket, at your honourable + service to command. It is a name you may have seen in GALLO BELGICUS, the + SWEDISH INTELLIGENCER, or, if you read High Dutch, in the FLIEGENDEN + MERCOEUR of Leipsic. My father, my lord, having by unthrifty courses + reduced a fair patrimony to a nonentity, I had no better shift, when I was + eighteen years auld, than to carry the learning whilk I had acquired at + the Mareschal-College of Aberdeen, my gentle bluid and designation of + Drumthwacket, together with a pair of stalwarth arms, and legs conform, to + the German wars, there to push my way as a cavalier of fortune. My lord, + my legs and arms stood me in more stead than either my gentle kin or my + book-lear, and I found myself trailing a pike as a private gentleman under + old Sir Ludovick Leslie, where I learned the rules of service so tightly, + that I will not forget them in a hurry. Sir, I have been made to stand + guard eight hours, being from twelve at noon to eight o’clock of the + night, at the palace, armed with back and breast, head-piece and + bracelets, being iron to the teeth, in a bitter frost, and the ice was as + hard as ever was flint; and all for stopping an instant to speak to my + landlady, when I should have gone to roll-call.” + </p> + <p> + “And, doubtless, sir,” replied Lord Menteith, “you have gone through some + hot service, as well as this same cold duty you talk of?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely, my lord, it doth not become me to speak; but he that hath seen + the fields of Leipsic and of Lutzen, may be said to have seen pitched + battles. And one who hath witnessed the intaking of Frankfort, and + Spanheim, and Nuremberg, and so forth, should know somewhat about + leaguers, storms, onslaughts and outfalls.” + </p> + <p> + “But your merit, sir, and experience, were doubtless followed by + promotion?” + </p> + <p> + “It came slow, my lord, dooms slow,” replied Dalgetty; “but as my Scottish + countrymen, the fathers of the war, and the raisers of those valorous + Scottish regiments that were the dread of Germany, began to fall pretty + thick, what with pestilence and what with the sword, why we, their + children, succeeded to their inheritance. Sir, I was six years first + private gentleman of the company, and three years lance speisade; + disdaining to receive a halberd, as unbecoming my birth. Wherefore I was + ultimately promoted to be a fahndragger, as the High Dutch call it (which + signifies an ancient), in the King’s Leif Regiment of Black-Horse, and + thereafter I arose to be lieutenant and ritt-master, under that invincible + monarch, the bulwark of the Protestant faith, the Lion of the North, the + terror of Austria, Gustavus the Victorious.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet, if I understand you, Captain Dalgetty,—I think that rank + corresponds with your foreign title of ritt-master—” + </p> + <p> + “The same grade preceesely,” answered Dalgetty; “ritt-master signifying + literally file-leader.” + </p> + <p> + “I was observing,” continued Lord Menteith, “that, if I understood you + right, you had left the service of this great Prince.” + </p> + <p> + “It was after his death—it was after his death, sir,” said Dalgetty, + “when I was in no shape bound to continue mine adherence. There are + things, my lord, in that service, that cannot but go against the stomach + of any cavalier of honour. In especial, albeit the pay be none of the most + superabundant, being only about sixty dollars a-month to a ritt-master, + yet the invincible Gustavus never paid above one-third of that sum, whilk + was distributed monthly by way of loan; although, when justly considered, + it was, in fact, a borrowing by that great monarch of the additional + two-thirds which were due to the soldier. And I have seen some whole + regiments of Dutch and Holsteiners mutiny on the field of battle, like + base scullions, crying out Gelt, gelt, signifying their desire of pay, + instead of falling to blows like our noble Scottish blades, who ever + disdained, my lord, postponing of honour to filthy lucre.” + </p> + <p> + “But were not these arrears,” said Lord Menteith, “paid to the soldiery at + some stated period?” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” said Dalgetty, “I take it on my conscience, that at no period, + and by no possible process, could one creutzer of them ever be recovered. + I myself never saw twenty dollars of my own all the time I served the + invincible Gustavus, unless it was from the chance of a storm or victory, + or the fetching in some town or doorp, when a cavalier of fortune, who + knows the usage of wars, seldom faileth to make some small profit.” + </p> + <p> + “I begin rather to wonder, sir,” said Lord Menteith, “that you should have + continued so long in the Swedish service, than that you should have + ultimately withdrawn from it.” + </p> + <p> + “Neither I should,” answered the Ritt-master; “but that great leader, + captain, and king, the Lion of the North, and the bulwark of the + Protestant faith, had a way of winning battles, taking towns, over-running + countries, and levying contributions, whilk made his service irresistibly + delectable to all true-bred cavaliers who follow the noble profession of + arms. Simple as I ride here, my lord, I have myself commanded the whole + stift of Dunklespiel on the Lower Rhine, occupying the Palsgrave’s palace, + consuming his choice wines with my comrades, calling in contributions, + requisitions, and caduacs, and not failing to lick my fingers, as became a + good cook. But truly all this glory hastened to decay, after our great + master had been shot with three bullets on the field of Lutzen; wherefore, + finding that Fortune had changed sides, that the borrowings and lendings + went on as before out of our pay, while the caduacs and casualties were + all cut off, I e’en gave up my commission, and took service with + Wallenstein, in Walter Butler’s Irish regiment.” + </p> + <p> + “And may I beg to know of you,” said Lord Menteith, apparently interested + in the adventures of this soldier of fortune, “how you liked this change + of masters?” + </p> + <p> + “Indifferent well,” said the Captain—“very indifferent well. I + cannot say that the Emperor paid much better than the great Gustavus. For + hard knocks, we had plenty of them. I was often obliged to run my head + against my old acquaintances, the Swedish feathers, whilk your honour must + conceive to be double-pointed stakes, shod with iron at each end, and + planted before the squad of pikes to prevent an onfall of the cavalry. The + whilk Swedish feathers, although they look gay to the eye, resembling the + shrubs or lesser trees of ane forest, as the puissant pikes, arranged in + battalia behind them, correspond to the tall pines thereof, yet, + nevertheless, are not altogether so soft to encounter as the plumage of a + goose. Howbeit, in despite of heavy blows and light pay, a cavalier of + fortune may thrive indifferently well in the Imperial service, in respect + his private casualties are nothing so closely looked to as by the Swede; + and so that an officer did his duty on the field, neither Wallenstein nor + Pappenheim, nor old Tilly before them, would likely listen to the + objurgations of boors or burghers against any commander or soldado, by + whom they chanced to be somewhat closely shorn. So that an experienced + cavalier, knowing how to lay, as our Scottish phrase runs, ‘the head of + the sow to the tail of the grice,’ might get out of the country the pay + whilk he could not obtain from the Emperor.” + </p> + <p> + “With a full hand, sir, doubtless, and with interest,” said Lord Menteith. + </p> + <p> + “Indubitably, my lord,” answered Dalgetty, composedly; “for it would be + doubly disgraceful for any soldado of rank to have his name called in + question for any petty delinquency.” + </p> + <p> + “And pray, Sir,” continued Lord Menteith, “what made you leave so gainful + a service?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, truly, sir,” answered the soldier, “an Irish cavalier, called + O’Quilligan, being major of our regiment, and I having had words with him + the night before, respecting the worth and precedence of our several + nations, it pleased him the next day to deliver his orders to me with the + point of his batoon advanced and held aloof, instead of declining and + trailing the same, as is the fashion from a courteous commanding officer + towards his equal in rank, though, it may be, his inferior in military + grade. Upon this quarrel, sir, we fought in private rencontre; and as, in + the perquisitions which followed, it pleased Walter Butler, our oberst, or + colonel, to give the lighter punishment to his countryman, and the heavier + to me, whereupon, ill-stomaching such partiality, I exchanged my + commission for one under the Spaniard.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you found yourself better off by the change?” said Lord Menteith. + </p> + <p> + “In good sooth,” answered the Ritt-master, “I had but little to complain + of. The pay was somewhat regular, being furnished by the rich Flemings and + Waloons of the Low Country. The quarters were excellent; the good wheaten + loaves of the Flemings were better than the Provant rye-bread of the + Swede, and Rhenish wine was more plenty with us than ever I saw the + black-beer of Rostock in Gustavus’s camp. Service there was none, duty + there was little; and that little we might do, or leave undone, at our + pleasure; an excellent retirement for a cavalier somewhat weary of field + and leaguer, who had purchased with his blood as much honour as might + serve his turn, and was desirous of a little ease and good living.” + </p> + <p> + “And may I ask,” said Lord Menteith, “why you, Captain, being, as I + suppose, in the situation you describe, retired from the Spanish service + also?” + </p> + <p> + “You are to consider, my lord, that your Spaniard,” replied Captain + Dalgetty, “is a person altogether unparalleled in his own conceit, + where-through he maketh not fit account of such foreign cavaliers of + valour as are pleased to take service with him. And a galling thing it is + to every honourable soldado, to be put aside, and postponed, and obliged + to yield preference to every puffing signor, who, were it the question + which should first mount a breach at push of pike, might be apt to yield + willing place to a Scottish cavalier. Moreover, sir, I was pricked in + conscience respecting a matter of religion.” + </p> + <p> + “I should not have thought, Captain Dalgetty,” said the young nobleman, + “that an old soldier, who had changed service so often, would have been + too scrupulous on that head.” + </p> + <p> + “No more I am, my lord,” said the Captain, “since I hold it to be the duty + of the chaplain of the regiment to settle those matters for me, and every + other brave cavalier, inasmuch as he does nothing else that I know of for + his pay and allowances. But this was a particular case, my lord, a CASUS + IMPROVISUS, as I may say, in whilk I had no chaplain of my own persuasion + to act as my adviser. I found, in short, that although my being a + Protestant might be winked at, in respect that I was a man of action, and + had more experience than all the Dons in our TERTIA put together, yet, + when in garrison, it was expected I should go to mass with the regiment. + Now, my lord, as a true Scottish man, and educated at the + Mareschal-College of Aberdeen, I was bound to uphold the mass to be an act + of blinded papistry and utter idolatry, whilk I was altogether unwilling + to homologate by my presence. True it is, that I consulted on the point + with a worthy countryman of my own, one Father Fatsides, of the Scottish + Covenant in Wurtzburg—” + </p> + <p> + “And I hope,” observed Lord Menteith, “you obtained a clear opinion from + this same ghostly father?” + </p> + <p> + “As clear as it could be,” replied Captain Dalgetty, “considering we had + drunk six flasks of Rhenish, and about two mutchkins of Kirchenwasser. + Father Fatsides informed me, that, as nearly as he could judge for a + heretic like myself, it signified not much whether I went to mass or not, + seeing my eternal perdition was signed and sealed at any rate, in respect + of my impenitent and obdurate perseverance in my damnable heresy. Being + discouraged by this response, I applied to a Dutch pastor of the reformed + church, who told me, he thought I might lawfully go to mass, in respect + that the prophet permitted Naaman, a mighty man of valour, and an + honourable cavalier of Syria, to follow his master into the house of + Rimmon, a false god, or idol, to whom he had vowed service, and to bow + down when the king was leaning upon his hand. But neither was this answer + satisfactory to me, both because there was an unco difference between an + anointed King of Syria and our Spanish colonel, whom I could have blown + away like the peeling of an ingan, and chiefly because I could not find + the thing was required of me by any of the articles of war; neither was I + proffered any consideration, either in perquisite or pay, for the wrong I + might thereby do to my conscience.” + </p> + <p> + “So you again changed your service?” said Lord Menteith. + </p> + <p> + “In troth did I, my lord; and after trying for a short while two or three + other powers, I even took on for a time with their High Mightinesses the + States of Holland.” + </p> + <p> + “And how did their service jump with your humour?” again demanded his + companion. + </p> + <p> + “O! my lord,” said the soldier, in a sort of enthusiasm, “their behaviour + on pay-day might be a pattern to all Europe—no borrowings, no + lendings, no offsets no arrears—all balanced and paid like a + banker’s book. The quarters, too, are excellent, and the allowances + unchallengeable; but then, sir, they are a preceese, scrupulous people, + and will allow nothing for peccadilloes. So that if a boor complains of a + broken head, or a beer-seller of a broken can, or a daft wench does but + squeak loud enough to be heard above her breath, a soldier of honour shall + be dragged, not before his own court-martial, who can best judge of and + punish his demerits, but before a base mechanical burgo-master, who shall + menace him with the rasp-house, the cord, and what not, as if he were one + of their own mean, amphibious, twenty-breeched boors. So not being able to + dwell longer among those ungrateful plebeians, who, although unable to + defend themselves by their proper strength, will nevertheless allow the + noble foreign cavalier who engages with them nothing beyond his dry wages, + which no honourable spirit will put in competition with a liberal license + and honourable countenance, I resolved to leave the service of the + Mynheers. And hearing at this time, to my exceeding satisfaction, that + there is something to be doing this summer in my way in this my dear + native country, I am come hither, as they say, like a beggar to a bridal, + in order to give my loving countrymen the advantage of that experience + which I have acquired in foreign parts. So your lordship has an outline of + my brief story, excepting my deportment in those passages of action in the + field, in leaguers, storms, and onslaughts, whilk would be wearisome to + narrate, and might, peradventure, better befit any other tongue than mine + own.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + For pleas of right let statesmen vex their head, + Battle’s my business, and my guerdon bread; + And, with the sworded Switzer, I can say, + The best of causes is the best of pay.—DONNE. +</pre> + <p> + The difficulty and narrowness of the road had by this time become such as + to interrupt the conversation of the travellers, and Lord Menteith, + reining back his horse, held a moment’s private conversation with his + domestics. The Captain, who now led the van of the party, after about a + quarter of a mile’s slow and toilsome advance up a broken and rugged + ascent, emerged into an upland valley, to which a mountain stream acted as + a drain, and afforded sufficient room upon its greensward banks for the + travellers to pursue their journey in a more social manner. + </p> + <p> + Lord Menteith accordingly resumed the conversation, which had been + interrupted by the difficulties of the way. “I should have thought,” said + he to Captain Dalgetty, “that a cavalier of your honourable mark, who hath + so long followed the valiant King of Sweden, and entertains such a + suitable contempt for the base mechanical States of Holland, would not + have hesitated to embrace the cause of King Charles, in preference to that + of the low-born, roundheaded, canting knaves, who are in rebellion against + his authority?” + </p> + <p> + “Ye speak reasonably, my lord,” said Dalgetty, “and, CAETERIS PARIBUS, I + might be induced to see the matter in the same light. But, my lord, there + is a southern proverb, fine words butter no parsnips. I have heard enough + since I came here, to satisfy me that a cavalier of honour is free to take + any part in this civil embroilment whilk he may find most convenient for + his own peculiar. Loyalty is your pass-word, my lord—Liberty, roars + another chield from the other side of the strath—the King, shouts + one war-cry—the Parliament, roars another—Montrose, for ever, + cries Donald, waving his bonnet—Argyle and Leven, cries a + south-country Saunders, vapouring with his hat and feather. Fight for the + bishops, says a priest, with his gown and rochet—Stand stout for the + Kirk, cries a minister, in a Geneva cap and band.—Good watchwords + all—excellent watchwords. Whilk cause is the best I cannot say. But + sure am I, that I have fought knee-deep in blood many a day for one that + was ten degrees worse than the worst of them all.” + </p> + <p> + “And pray, Captain Dalgetty,” said his lordship, “since the pretensions of + both parties seem to you so equal, will you please to inform us by what + circumstances your preference will be determined?” + </p> + <p> + “Simply upon two considerations, my lord,” answered the soldier. “Being, + first, on which side my services would be in most honourable request;—And, + secondly, whilk is a corollary of the first, by whilk party they are + likely to be most gratefully requited. And, to deal plainly with you, my + lord, my opinion at present doth on both points rather incline to the side + of the Parliament.” + </p> + <p> + “Your reasons, if you please,” said Lord Menteith, “and perhaps I may be + able to meet them with some others which are more powerful.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, I shall be amenable to reason,” said Captain Dalgetty, “supposing it + addresses itself to my honour and my interest. Well, then, my lord, here + is a sort of Highland host assembled, or expected to assemble, in these + wild hills, in the King’s behalf. Now, sir, you know the nature of our + Highlanders. I will not deny them to be a people stout in body and valiant + in heart, and courageous enough in their own wild way of fighting, which + is as remote from the usages and discipline of war as ever was that of the + ancient Scythians, or of the salvage Indians of America that now is, They + havena sae mickle as a German whistle, or a drum, to beat a march, an + alarm, a charge, a retreat, a reveille, or the tattoo, or any other point + of war; and their damnable skirlin’ pipes, whilk they themselves pretend + to understand, are unintelligible to the ears of any cavaliero accustomed + to civilised warfare. So that, were I undertaking to discipline such a + breechless mob, it were impossible for me to be understood; and if I were + understood, judge ye, my lord, what chance I had of being obeyed among a + band of half salvages, who are accustomed to pay to their own lairds and + chiefs, allenarly, that respect and obedience whilk ought to be paid to + commissionate officers. If I were teaching them to form battalia by + extracting the square root, that is, by forming your square battalion of + equal number of men of rank and file, corresponding to the square root of + the full number present, what return could I expect for communicating this + golden secret of military tactic, except it may be a dirk in my wame, on + placing some M’Alister More M’Shemei or Capperfae, in the flank or rear, + when he claimed to be in the van?—Truly, well saith holy writ, ‘if + ye cast pearls before swine, they will turn again and rend ye.’” + </p> + <p> + “I believe, Anderson,” said Lord Menteith, looking back to one of his + servants, for both were close behind him, “you can assure this gentleman, + we shall have more occasion for experienced officers, and be more disposed + to profit by their instructions, than he seems to be aware of.” + </p> + <p> + “With your honour’s permission,” said Anderson, respectfully raising his + cap, “when we are joined by the Irish infantry, who are expected, and who + should be landed in the West Highlands before now, we shall have need of + good soldiers to discipline our levies.” + </p> + <p> + “And I should like well—very well, to be employed in such service,” + said Dalgetty; “the Irish are pretty fellows—very pretty fellows—I + desire to see none better in the field. I once saw a brigade of Irish, at + the taking of Frankfort upon the Oder, stand to it with sword and pike + until they beat off the blue and yellow Swedish brigades, esteemed as + stout as any that fought under the immortal Gustavus. And although stout + Hepburn, valiant Lumsdale, courageous Monroe, with myself and other + cavaliers, made entry elsewhere at point of pike, yet, had we all met with + such opposition, we had returned with great loss and little profit. + Wherefore these valiant Irishes, being all put to the sword, as is usual + in such cases, did nevertheless gain immortal praise and honour; so that, + for their sakes, I have always loved and honoured those of that nation + next to my own country of Scotland.” + </p> + <p> + “A command of Irish,” said Menteith, “I think I could almost promise you, + should you be disposed to embrace the royal cause.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” said Captain Dalgetty, “my second and greatest difficulty + remains behind; for, although I hold it a mean and sordid thing for a + soldado to have nothing in his mouth but pay and gelt, like the base + cullions, the German lanz-knechts, whom I mentioned before; and although I + will maintain it with my sword, that honour is to be preferred before pay, + free quarters, and arrears, yet, EX CONTRARIO, a soldier’s pay being the + counterpart of his engagement of service, it becomes a wise and + considerate cavalier to consider what remuneration he is to receive for + his service, and from what funds it is to be paid. And truly, my lord, + from what I can see and hear, the Convention are the purse-masters. The + Highlanders, indeed, may be kept in humour, by allowing them to steal + cattle; and for the Irishes, your lordship and your noble associates may, + according to the practice of the wars in such cases, pay them as seldom or + as little as may suit your pleasure or convenience; but the same mode of + treatment doth not apply to a cavalier like me, who must keep up his + horses, servants, arms, and equipage, and who neither can, nor will, go to + warfare upon his own charges.” + </p> + <p> + Anderson, the domestic who had before spoken now respectfully addressed + his master.—“I think, my lord,” he said, “that, under your + lordship’s favour, I could say something to remove Captain Dalgetty’s + second objection also. He asks us where we are to collect our pay; now, in + my poor mind, the resources are as open to us as to the Covenanters. They + tax the country according to their pleasure, and dilapidate the estates of + the King’s friends; now, were we once in the Lowlands, with our + Highlanders and our Irish at our backs, and our swords in our hands, we + can find many a fat traitor, whose ill-gotten wealth shall fill our + military chest and satisfy our soldiery. Besides, confiscations will fall + in thick; and, in giving donations of forfeited lands to every adventurous + cavalier who joins his standard, the King will at once reward his friends + and punish his enemies. In short, he that joins these Roundhead dogs may + get some miserable pittance of pay—he that joins our standard has a + chance to be knight, lord, or earl, if luck serve him.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you ever served, my good friend?” said the Captain to the spokesman. + </p> + <p> + “A little, sir, in these our domestic quarrels,” answered the man, + modestly. + </p> + <p> + “But never in Germany or the Low Countries?” said Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + “I never had the honour,” answered Anderson. + </p> + <p> + “I profess,” said Dalgetty, addressing Lord Menteith, “your lordship’s + servant has a sensible, natural, pretty idea of military matters; somewhat + irregular, though, and smells a little too much of selling the bear’s skin + before he has hunted him.—I will take the matter, however, into my + consideration.” + </p> + <p> + “Do so, Captain,” said Lord Menteith; “you will have the night to think of + it, for we are now near the house, where I hope to ensure you a hospitable + reception.” + </p> + <p> + “And that is what will be very welcome,” said the Captain, “for I have + tasted no food since daybreak but a farl of oatcake, which I divided with + my horse. So I have been fain to draw my sword-belt three bores tighter + for very extenuation, lest hunger and heavy iron should make the gird + slip.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Once on a time, no matter when, + Some Glunimies met in a glen; + As deft and tight as ever wore + A durk, a targe, and a claymore, + Short hose, and belted plaid or trews, + In Uist, Lochaber, Skye, or Lewes, + Or cover’d hard head with his bonnet; + Had you but known them, you would own it.—MESTON. +</pre> + <p> + A hill was now before the travellers, covered with an ancient forest of + Scottish firs, the topmost of which, flinging their scathed branches + across the western horizon, gleamed ruddy in the setting sun. In the + centre of this wood rose the towers, or rather the chimneys, of the house, + or castle, as it was called, destined for the end of their journey. + </p> + <p> + As usual at that period, one or two high-ridged narrow buildings, + intersecting and crossing each other, formed the CORPS DE LOGIS. A + protecting bartizan or two, with the addition of small turrets at the + angles, much resembling pepper-boxes, had procured for Darnlinvarach the + dignified appellation of a castle. It was surrounded by a low court-yard + wall, within which were the usual offices. + </p> + <p> + As the travellers approached more nearly, they discovered marks of recent + additions to the defences of the place, which had been suggested, + doubtless, by the insecurity of those troublesome times. Additional + loop-holes for musketry were struck out in different parts of the + building, and of its surrounding wall. The windows had just been carefully + secured by stancheons of iron, crossing each other athwart and end-long, + like the grates of a prison. The door of the court-yard was shut; and it + was only after cautious challenge that one of its leaves was opened by two + domestics, both strong Highlanders, and both under arms, like Bitias and + Pandarus in the AEneid, ready to defend the entrance if aught hostile had + ventured an intrusion. + </p> + <p> + When the travellers were admitted into the court, they found additional + preparations for defence. The walls were scaffolded for the use of + fire-arms, and one or two of the small guns, called sackers, or falcons, + were mounted at the angles and flanking turrets. + </p> + <p> + More domestics, both in the Highland and Lowland dress, instantly rushed + from the anterior of the mansion, and some hastened to take the horses of + the strangers, while others waited to marshal them a way into the + dwelling-house. But Captain Dalgetty refused the proffered assistance of + those who wished to relieve him of the charge of his horse. “It is my + custom, my friends, to see Gustavus (for so I have called him, after my + invincible master) accommodated myself; we are old friends and + fellow-travellers, and as I often need the use of his legs, I always lend + him in my turn the service of my tongue, to call for whatever he has + occasion for;” and accordingly he strode into the stable after his steed + without farther apology. + </p> + <p> + Neither Lord Menteith nor his attendants paid the same attention to their + horses, but, leaving them to the proffered care of the servants of the + place, walked forward into the house, where a sort of dark vaulted + vestibule displayed, among other miscellaneous articles, a huge barrel of + two-penny ale, beside which were ranged two or three wooden queichs, or + bickers, ready, it would appear, for the service of whoever thought proper + to employ them. Lord Menteith applied himself to the spigot, drank without + ceremony, and then handed the stoup to Anderson, who followed his master’s + example, but not until he had flung out the drop of ale which remained, + and slightly rinsed the wooden cup. + </p> + <p> + “What the deil, man,” said an old Highland servant belonging to the + family, “can she no drink after her ain master without washing the cup and + spilling the ale, and be tamned to her!” + </p> + <p> + “I was bred in France,” answered Anderson, “where nobody drinks after + another out of the same cup, unless it be after a young lady.” + </p> + <p> + “The teil’s in their nicety!” said Donald; “and if the ale be gude, fat + the waur is’t that another man’s beard’s been in the queich before ye?” + </p> + <p> + Anderson’s companion drank without observing the ceremony which had given + Donald so much offence, and both of them followed their master into the + low-arched stone hall, which was the common rendezvous of a Highland + family. A large fire of peats in the huge chimney at the upper end shed a + dim light through the apartment, and was rendered necessary by the damp, + by which, even during the summer, the apartment was rendered + uncomfortable. Twenty or thirty targets, as many claymores, with dirks, + and plaids, and guns, both match-lock and fire-lock, and long-bows, and + cross-bows, and Lochaber axes, and coats of plate armour, and steel + bonnets, and headpieces, and the more ancient haborgeons, or shirts of + reticulated mail, with hood and sleeves corresponding to it, all hung in + confusion about the walls, and would have formed a month’s amusement to a + member of a modern antiquarian society. But such things were too familiar, + to attract much observation on the part of the present spectators. + </p> + <p> + There was a large clumsy oaken table, which the hasty hospitality of the + domestic who had before spoken, immediately spread with milk, butter, + goat-milk cheese, a flagon of beer, and a flask of usquebae, designed for + the refreshment of Lord Menteith; while an inferior servant made similar + preparations at the bottom of the table for the benefit of his attendants. + The space which intervened between them was, according to the manners of + the times, sufficient distinction between master and servant, even though + the former was, as in the present instance, of high rank. Meanwhile the + guests stood by the fire—the young nobleman under the chimney, and + his servants at some little distance. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think, Anderson,” said the former, “of our fellow-traveller?” + </p> + <p> + “A stout fellow,” replied Anderson, “if all be good that is upcome. I wish + we had twenty such, to put our Teagues into some sort of discipline.” + </p> + <p> + “I differ from you, Anderson,” said Lord Menteith; “I think this fellow + Dalgetty is one of those horse-leeches, whose appetite for blood being + only sharpened by what he has sucked in foreign countries, he is now + returned to batten upon that of his own. Shame on the pack of these + mercenary swordmen! they have made the name of Scot through all Europe + equivalent to that of a pitiful mercenary, who knows neither honour nor + principle but his month’s pay, who transfers his allegiance from standard + to standard, at the pleasure of fortune or the highest bidder; and to + whose insatiable thirst for plunder and warm quarters we owe much of that + civil dissension which is now turning our swords against our own bowels. I + had scarce patience with the hired gladiator, and yet could hardly help + laughing at the extremity of his impudence.” + </p> + <p> + “Your lordship will forgive me,” said Anderson, “if I recommend to you, in + the present circumstances, to conceal at least a part of this generous + indignation; we cannot, unfortunately, do our work without the assistance + of those who act on baser motives than our own. We cannot spare the + assistance of such fellows as our friend the soldado. To use the canting + phrase of the saints in the English Parliament, the sons of Zeruiah are + still too many for us.” + </p> + <p> + “I must dissemble, then, as well as I can,” said Lord Menteith, “as I have + hitherto done, upon your hint. But I wish the fellow at the devil with all + my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but still you must remember, my lord,” resumed Anderson, “that to + cure the bite of a scorpion, you must crush another scorpion on the wound—But + stop, we shall be overheard.” + </p> + <p> + From a side-door in the hall glided a Highlander into the apartment, whose + lofty stature and complete equipment, as well as the eagle’s feather in + his bonnet, and the confidence of his demeanour, announced to be a person + of superior rank. He walked slowly up to the table, and made no answer to + Lord Menteith, who, addressing him by the name of Allan, asked him how he + did. + </p> + <p> + “Ye manna speak to her e’en now,” whispered the old attendant. + </p> + <p> + The tall Highlander, sinking down upon the empty settle next the fire, + fixed his eyes upon the red embers and the huge heap of turf, and seemed + buried in profound abstraction. His dark eyes, and wild and enthusiastic + features, bore the air of one who, deeply impressed with his own subjects + of meditation, pays little attention to exterior objects. An air of gloomy + severity, the fruit perhaps of ascetic and solitary habits, might, in a + Lowlander, have been ascribed to religious fanaticism; but by that disease + of the mind, then so common both in England and the Lowlands of Scotland, + the Highlanders of this period were rarely infected. They had, however, + their own peculiar superstitions, which overclouded the mind with + thick-coming fancies, as completely as the puritanism of their neighbours. + </p> + <p> + “His lordship’s honour,” said the Highland servant sideling up to Lord + Menteith, and speaking in a very low tone, “his lordship manna speak to + Allan even now, for the cloud is upon his mind.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Menteith nodded, and took no farther notice of the reserved + mountaineer. + </p> + <p> + “Said I not,” asked the latter, suddenly raising his stately person + upright, and looking at the domestic—“said I not that four were to + come, and here stand but three on the hall floor?” + </p> + <p> + “In troth did ye say sae, Allan,” said the old Highlander, “and here’s the + fourth man coming clinking in at the yett e’en now from the stable, for + he’s shelled like a partan, wi’ airn on back and breast, haunch and + shanks. And am I to set her chair up near the Menteith’s, or down wi’ the + honest gentlemen at the foot of the table?” + </p> + <p> + Lord Menteith himself answered the enquiry, by pointing to a seat beside + his own. + </p> + <p> + “And here she comes,” said Donald, as Captain Dalgetty entered the hall; + “and I hope gentlemens will all take bread and cheese, as we say in the + glens, until better meat be ready, until the Tiernach comes back frae the + hill wi’ the southern gentlefolk, and then Dugald Cook will show himself + wi’ his kid and hill venison.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, Captain Dalgetty had entered the apartment, and walking + up to the seat placed next Lord Menteith, was leaning on the back of it + with his arms folded. Anderson and his companion waited at the bottom of + the table, in a respectful attitude, until they should receive permission + to seat themselves; while three or four Highlanders, under the direction + of old Donald, ran hither and thither to bring additional articles of + food, or stood still to give attendance upon the guests. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of these preparations, Allan suddenly started up, and + snatching a lamp from the hand of an attendant, held it close to + Dalgetty’s face, while he perused his features with the most heedful and + grave attention. + </p> + <p> + “By my honour,” said Dalgetty, half displeased, as, mysteriously shaking + his head, Allan gave up the scrutiny—“I trow that lad and I will ken + each other when we meet again.” + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Allan strode to the bottom of the table, and having, by the aid + of his lamp, subjected Anderson and his companion to the same + investigation, stood a moment as if in deep reflection; then, touching his + forehead, suddenly seized Anderson by the arm, and before he could offer + any effectual resistance, half led and half dragged him to the vacant seat + at the upper end, and having made a mute intimation that he should there + place himself, he hurried the soldado with the same unceremonious + precipitation to the bottom of the table. The Captain, exceedingly + incensed at this freedom, endeavoured to shake Allan from him with + violence; but, powerful as he was, he proved in the struggle inferior to + the gigantic mountaineer, who threw him off with such violence, that after + reeling a few paces, he fell at full length, and the vaulted hall rang + with the clash of his armour. When he arose, his first action was to draw + his sword and to fly at Allan, who, with folded arms, seemed to await his + onset with the most scornful indifference. Lord Menteith and his + attendants interposed to preserve peace, while the Highlanders, snatching + weapons from the wall, seemed prompt to increase the broil. + </p> + <p> + “He is mad,” whispered Lord Menteith, “he is perfectly mad; there is no + purpose in quarrelling with him.” + </p> + <p> + “If your lordship is assured that he is NON COMPOS MENTIS,” said Captain + Dalgetty, “the whilk his breeding and behaviour seem to testify, the + matter must end here, seeing that a madman can neither give an affront, + nor render honourable satisfaction. But, by my saul, if I had my provstnt + and a bottle of Rhenish under my belt, I should hive stood otherways up to + him. And yet it’s a pity he should be sae weak in the intellectuals, being + a strong proper man of body, fit to handle pike, morgenstern, or any other + military implement whatsoever.” [This was a sort of club or mace, used in + the earlier part of the seventeenth century in the defence of breaches and + walls. When the Germans insulted a Scotch regiment then besieged in + Trailsund, saying they heard there was a ship come from Denmark to them + laden with tobacco pipes, “One of our soldiers,” says Colonel Robert + Munro, “showing them over the work a morgenstern, made of a large stock + banded with iron, like the shaft of a halberd, with a round globe at the + end with cross iron pikes, saith, ‘Here is one of the tobacco pipes, + wherewith we will beat out your brains when you intend to storm us.’”] + </p> + <p> + Peace was thus restored, and the party seated themselves agreeably to + their former arrangement, with which Allan, who had now returned to his + settle by the fire, and seemed once more immersed in meditation, did not + again interfere. Lord Menteith, addressing the principal domestic, + hastened to start some theme of conversation which might obliterate all + recollection of the fray that had taken place. “The laird is at the hill + then, Donald, I understand, and some English strangers with him?” + </p> + <p> + “At the hill he is, an it like your honour, and two Saxon calabaleros are + with him sure eneugh; and that is Sir Miles Musgrave and Christopher Hall, + both from the Cumraik, as I think they call their country.” + </p> + <p> + “Hall and Musgrave?” said Lord Menteith, looking at his attendants, “the + very men that we wished to see.” + </p> + <p> + “Troth,” said Donald, “an’ I wish I had never seen them between the een, + for they’re come to herry us out o’ house and ha’.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Donald,” said Lord Menteith, “you did not use to be so churlish of + your beef and ale; southland though they be, they’ll scarce eat up all the + cattle that’s going on the castle mains.” + </p> + <p> + “Teil care an they did,” said Donald, “an that were the warst o’t, for we + have a wheen canny trewsmen here that wadna let us want if there was a + horned beast atween this and Perth. But this is a warse job—it’s nae + less than a wager.” + </p> + <p> + “A wager!” repeated Lord Menteith, with some surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Troth,” continued Donald, to the full as eager to tell his news as Lord + Menteith was curious to hear them, “as your lordship is a friend and + kinsman o’ the house, an’ as ye’ll hear eneugh o’t in less than an hour, I + may as weel tell ye mysell. Ye sall be pleased then to know, that when our + Laird was up in England where he gangs oftener than his friends can wish, + he was biding at the house o’ this Sir Miles Musgrave, an’ there was + putten on the table six candlesticks, that they tell me were twice as + muckle as the candlesticks in Dunblane kirk, and neither airn, brass, nor + tin, but a’ solid silver, nae less;—up wi’ their English pride, has + sae muckle, and kens sae little how to guide it! Sae they began to jeer + the Laird, that he saw nae sic graith in his ain poor country; and the + Laird, scorning to hae his country put down without a word for its credit, + swore, like a gude Scotsman, that he had mair candlesticks, and better + candlesticks, in his ain castle at hame, than were ever lighted in a hall + in Cumberland, an Cumberland be the name o’ the country.” + </p> + <p> + “That was patriotically said,” observed Lord Menteith. + </p> + <p> + “Fary true,” said Donald; “but her honour had better hae hauden her + tongue: for if ye say ony thing amang the Saxons that’s a wee by ordinar, + they clink ye down for a wager as fast as a Lowland smith would hammer + shoon on a Highland shelty. An’ so the Laird behoved either to gae back o’ + his word, or wager twa hunder merks; and sa he e’en tock the wager, rather + than be shamed wi’ the like o’ them. And now he’s like to get it to pay, + and I’m thinking that’s what makes him sae swear to come hame at e’en.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” said Lord Menteith, “from my idea of your family plate, Donald, + your master is certain to lose such a wager.” + </p> + <p> + “Your honour may swear that; an’ where he’s to get the siller I kenna, + although he borrowed out o’ twenty purses. I advised him to pit the twa + Saxon gentlemen and their servants cannily into the pit o’ the tower till + they gae up the bagain o’ free gude-will, but the Laird winna hear + reason.” + </p> + <p> + Allan here started up, strode forward, and interrupted the conversation, + saying to the domestic in a voice like thunder, “And how dared you to give + my brother such dishonourable advice? or how dare you to say he will lose + this or any other wager which it is his pleasure to lay?” + </p> + <p> + “Troth, Allan M’Aulay,” answered the old man, “it’s no for my father’s son + to gainsay what your father’s son thinks fit to say, an’ so the Laird may + no doubt win his wager. A’ that I ken against it is, that the teil a + candlestick, or ony thing like it, is in the house, except the auld airn + branches that has been here since Laird Kenneth’s time, and the tin + sconces that your father gard be made by auld Willie Winkie the tinkler, + mair be token that deil an unce of siller plate is about the house at a’, + forby the lady’s auld posset dish, that wants the cover and ane o’ the + lugs.” + </p> + <p> + “Peace, old man!” said Allan, fiercely; “and do you, gentlemen, if your + refection is finished, leave this apartment clear; I must prepare it for + the reception of these southern guests.” + </p> + <p> + “Come away,” said the domestic, pulling Lord Menteith by the sleeve; “his + hour is on him,” said he, looking towards Allan, “and he will not be + controlled.” + </p> + <p> + They left the hall accordingly, Lord Menteith and the Captain being + ushered one way by old Donald, and the two attendants conducted elsewhere + by another Highlander. The former had scarcely reached a sort of + withdrawing apartment ere they were joined by the lord of the mansion, + Angus M’Aulay by name, and his English guests. Great joy was expressed by + all parties, for Lord Menteith and the English gentlemen were well known + to each other; and on Lord Menteith’s introduction, Captain Dalgetty was + well received by the Laird. But after the first burst of hospitable + congratulation was over, Lord Menteith could observe that there was a + shade of sadness on the brow of his Highland friend. + </p> + <p> + “You must have heard,” said Sir Christopher Hall, “that our fine + undertaking in Cumberland is all blown up. The militia would not march + into Scotland, and your prick-ear’d Covenanters have been too hard for our + friends in the southern shires. And so, understanding there is some + stirring work here, Musgrave and I, rather than sit idle at home, are come + to have a campaign among your kilts and plaids.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you have brought arms, men, and money with you,” said Lord + Menteith, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Only some dozen or two of troopers, whom we left at the last Lowland + village,” said Musgrave, “and trouble enough we had to get them so far.” + </p> + <p> + “As for money,” said his companion, “We expect a small supply from our + friend and host here.” + </p> + <p> + The Laird now, colouring highly, took Menteith a little apart, and + expressed to him his regret that he had fallen into a foolish blunder. + </p> + <p> + “I heard it from Donald,” said Lord Menteith, scarce able to suppress a + smile. + </p> + <p> + “Devil take that old man,” said M’Aulay, “he would tell every thing, were + it to cost one’s life; but it’s no jesting matter to you neither, my lord, + for I reckon on your friendly and fraternal benevolence, as a near kinsman + of our house, to help me out with the money due to these pock-puddings; or + else, to be plain wi’ ye, the deil a M’Aulay will there be at the muster, + for curse me if I do not turn Covenanter rather than face these fellows + without paying them; and, at the best, I shall be ill enough off, getting + both the scaith and the scorn.” + </p> + <p> + “You may suppose, cousin,” said Lord Menteith, “I am not too well equipt + just now; but you may be assured I shall endeavour to help you as well as + I can, for the sake of old kindred, neighbourhood, and alliance.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank ye—thank ye—thank ye,” reiterated M’Aulay; “and as they + are to spend the money in the King’s service, what signifies whether you, + they, or I pay it?—we are a’ one man’s bairns, I hope? But you must + help me out too with some reasonable excuse, or else I shall be for taking + to Andrew Ferrara; for I like not to be treated like a liar or a braggart + at my own board-end, when, God knows, I only meant to support my honour, + and that of my family and country.” + </p> + <p> + Donald, as they were speaking, entered, with rather a blither face than he + might have been expected to wear, considering the impending fate of his + master’s purse and credit. “Gentlemens, her dinner is ready, and HER + CANDLES ARE LIGHTED TOO,” said Donald, with a strong guttural emphasis on + the last clause of his speech. + </p> + <p> + “What the devil can he mean?” said Musgrave, looking to his countryman. + </p> + <p> + Lord Menteith put the same question with his eyes to the Laird, which + M’Aulay answered by shaking his head. + </p> + <p> + A short dispute about precedence somewhat delayed their leaving the + apartment. Lord Menteith insisted upon yielding up that which belonged to + his rank, on consideration of his being in his own country, and of his + near connexion with the family in which they found themselves. The two + English strangers, therefore, were first ushered into the hall, where an + unexpected display awaited them. The large oaken table was spread with + substantial joints of meat, and seats were placed in order for the guests. + Behind every seat stood a gigantic Highlander, completely dressed and + armed after the fashion of his country, holding in his right hand his + drawn sword, with the point turned downwards, and in the left a blazing + torch made of the bog-pine. This wood, found in the morasses, is so full + of turpentine, that, when split and dried, it is frequently used in the + Highlands instead of candles. The unexpected and somewhat startling + apparition was seen by the red glare of the torches, which displayed the + wild features, unusual dress, and glittering arms of those who bore them, + while the smoke, eddying up to the roof of the hall, over-canopied them + with a volume of vapour. Ere the strangers had recovered from their + surprise, Allan stept forward, and pointing with his sheathed broadsword + to the torch-bearers, said, in a deep and stern tone of voice, “Behold, + gentlemen cavaliers, the chandeliers of my brother’s house, the ancient + fashion of our ancient name; not one of these men knows any law but their + Chiefs command—Would you dare to compare to THEM in value the + richest ore that ever was dug out of the mine? How say you, cavaliers?—is + your wager won or lost?” + </p> + <p> + “Lost; lost,” said Musgrave, gaily—“my own silver candlesticks are + all melted and riding on horseback by this time, and I wish the fellows + that enlisted were half as trusty as these.—Here, sir,” he added to + the Chief, “is your money; it impairs Hall’s finances and mine somewhat, + but debts of honour must be settled.” + </p> + <p> + “My father’s curse upon my father’s son,” said Allan, interrupting him, + “if he receive from you one penny! It is enough that you claim no right to + exact from him what is his own.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Menteith eagerly supported Allan’s opinion, and the elder M’Aulay + readily joined, declaring the whole to be a fool’s business, and not worth + speaking more about. The Englishmen, after some courteous opposition, were + persuaded to regard the whole as a joke. + </p> + <p> + “And now, Allan,” said the Laird, “please to remove your candles; for, + since the Saxon gentlemen have seen them, they will eat their dinner as + comfortably by the light of the old tin sconces, without scomfishing them + with so much smoke.” + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, at a sign from Allan, the living chandeliers, recovering + their broadswords, and holding the point erect, marched out of the hall, + and left the guests to enjoy their refreshment. [Such a bet as that + mentioned in the text is said to have been taken by MacDonald of Keppoch, + who extricated himself in the manner there narrated.] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Thareby so fearlesse and so fell he grew, + That his own syre and maister of his guise + Did often tremble at his horrid view; + And if for dread of hurt would him advise, + The angry beastes not rashly to despise, + Nor too much to provoke; for he would learne + The lion stoup to him in lowly wise, + (A lesson hard,) and make the libbard sterne + Leave roaring, when in rage he for revenge did earne.—SPENSER. +</pre> + <p> + Notwithstanding the proverbial epicurism of the English,—proverbial, + that is to say, in Scotland at the period,—the English visitors made + no figure whatever at the entertainment, compared with the portentous + voracity of Captain Dalgetty, although that gallant soldier had already + displayed much steadiness and pertinacity in his attack upon the lighter + refreshment set before them at their entrance, by way of forlorn hope. He + spoke to no one during the time of his meal; and it was not until the + victuals were nearly withdrawn from the table, that he gratified the rest + of the company, who had watched him with some surprise, with an account of + the reasons why he ate so very fast and so very long. + </p> + <p> + “The former quality,” he said, “he had acquired, while he filled a place + at the bursar’s table at the Mareschal-College of Aberdeen; when,” said + he; “if you did not move your jaws as fast as a pair of castanets, you + were very unlikely to get any thing to put between them. And as for the + quantity of my food, be it known to this honourable company,” continued + the Captain, “that it’s the duty of every commander of a fortress, on all + occasions which offer, to secure as much munition and vivers as their + magazines can possibly hold, not knowing when they may have to sustain a + siege or a blockade. Upon which principle, gentlemen,” said he, “when a + cavalier finds that provant is good and abundant, he will, in my + estimation, do wisely to victual himself for at least three days, as there + is no knowing when he may come by another meal.” + </p> + <p> + The Laird expressed his acquiescence in the prudence of this principle, + and recommended to the veteran to add a tass of brandy and a flagon of + claret to the substantial provisions he had already laid in, to which + proposal the Captain readily agreed. + </p> + <p> + When dinner was removed, and the servants had withdrawn, excepting the + Laird’s page, or henchman, who remained in the apartment to call for or + bring whatever was wanted, or, in a word, to answer the purposes of a + modern bell-wire, the conversation began to turn upon politics, and the + state of the country; and Lord Menteith enquired anxiously and + particularly what clans were expected to join the proposed muster of the + King’s friends. + </p> + <p> + “That depends much, my lord, on the person who lifts the banner,” said the + Laird; “for you know we Highlanders, when a few clans are assembled, are + not easily commanded by one of our own Chiefs, or, to say the truth, by + any other body. We have heard a rumour, indeed, that Colkitto—that + is, young Colkitto, or Alaster M’Donald, is come over the Kyle from + Ireland, with a body of the Earl of Antrim’s people, and that they had got + as far as Ardnamurchan. They might have been here before now, but, I + suppose, they loitered to plunder the country as they came along.” + </p> + <p> + “Will Colkitto not serve you for a leader, then?” said Lord Menteith. + </p> + <p> + “Colkitto?” said Allan M’Aulay, scornfully; “who talks of Colkitto?—There + lives but one man whom we will follow, and that is Montrose.” + </p> + <p> + “But Montrose, sir,” said Sir Christopher Hall, “has not been heard of + since our ineffectual attempt to rise in the north of England. It is + thought he has returned to the King at Oxford for farther instructions.” + </p> + <p> + “Returned!” said Allan, with a scornful laugh; “I could tell ye, but it is + not worth my while; ye will know soon enough.” + </p> + <p> + “By my honour, Allan,” said Lord Menteith, “you will weary out your + friends with this intolerable, froward, and sullen humour—But I know + the reason,” added he, laughing; “you have not seen Annot Lyle to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Whom did you say I had not seen?” said Allan, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Annot Lyle, the fairy queen of song and minstrelsy,” said Lord Menteith. + </p> + <p> + “Would to God I were never to see her again,” said Allan, sighing, “On + condition the same weird were laid on you!” + </p> + <p> + “And why on me?” said Lord Menteith, carelessly. + </p> + <p> + “Because,” said Allan, “it is written on your forehead, that you are to be + the ruin of each other.” So saying, he rose up and left the room. + </p> + <p> + “Has he been long in this way?” asked Lord Menteith, addressing his + brother. + </p> + <p> + “About three days,” answered Angus; “the fit is wellnigh over, he will be + better to-morrow.—But come, gentlemen, don’t let the tappit-hen + scraugh to be emptied. The King’s health, King Charles’s health! and may + the covenanting dog that refuses it, go to Heaven by the road of the + Grassmarket!” + </p> + <p> + The health was quickly pledged, and as fast succeeded by another, and + another, and another, all of a party cast, and enforced in an earnest + manner. Captain Dalgetty, however, thought it necessary to enter a + protest. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen cavaliers,” he said, “I drink these healths, PRIMO, both out of + respect to this honourable and hospitable roof-tree, and, SECUNDO, because + I hold it not good to be preceese in such matters, INTER POCULA; but I + protest, agreeable to the warrandice granted by this honourable lord, that + it shall be free to me, notwithstanding my present complaisance, to take + service with the Covenanters to-morrow, providing I shall be so minded.” + </p> + <p> + M’Aulay and his English guests stared at this declaration, which would + have certainly bred new disturbance, if Lord Menteith had not taken up the + affair, and explained the circumstances and conditions. “I trust,” he + concluded, “we shall be able to secure Captain Dalgetty’s assistance to + our own party.” + </p> + <p> + “And if not,” said the Laird, “I protest, as the Captain says, that + nothing that has passed this evening, not even his having eaten my bread + and salt, and pledged me in brandy, Bourdeaux, or usquebaugh, shall + prejudice my cleaving him to the neck-bone.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall be heartily welcome,” said the Captain, “providing my sword + cannot keep my head, which it has done in worse dangers than your fend is + likely to make for me.” + </p> + <p> + Here Lord Menteith again interposed, and the concord of the company being + with no small difficulty restored, was cemented by some deep carouses. + Lord Menteith, however, contrived to break up the party earlier than was + the usage of the Castle, under pretence of fatigue and indisposition. This + was somewhat to the disappointment of the valiant Captain, who, among + other habits acquired in the Low countries, had acquired both a + disposition to drink, and a capacity to bear, an exorbitant quantity of + strong liquors. + </p> + <p> + Their landlord ushered them in person to a sort of sleeping gallery, in + which there was a four-post bed, with tartan curtains, and a number of + cribs, or long hampers, placed along the wall, three of which, well + stuffed with blooming heather, were prepared for the reception of guests. + </p> + <p> + “I need not tell your lordship,” said M’Aulay to Lord Menteith, a little + apart, “our Highland mode of quartering. Only that, not liking you should + sleep in the room alone with this German land-louper, I have caused your + servants’ beds to be made here in the gallery. By G—d, my lord, + these are times when men go to bed with a throat hale and sound as ever + swallowed brandy, and before next morning it may be gaping like an + oyster-shell.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Menteith thanked him sincerely, saying, “It was just the arrangement + he would have requested; for, although he had not the least apprehension + of violence from Captain Dalgetty, yet Anderson was a better kind of + person, a sort of gentleman, whom he always liked to have near his + person.” + </p> + <p> + “I have not seen this Anderson,” said M’Aulay; “did you hire him in + England?” + </p> + <p> + “I did so,” said Lord Menteith; “you will see the man to-morrow; in the + meantime I wish you good-night.” + </p> + <p> + His host left the apartment after the evening salutation, and was about to + pay the same compliment to Captain Dalgetty, but observing him deeply + engaged in the discussion of a huge pitcher filled with brandy posset, he + thought it a pity to disturb him in so laudable an employment, and took + his leave without farther ceremony. + </p> + <p> + Lord Menteith’s two attendants entered the apartment almost immediately + after his departure. The good Captain, who was now somewhat encumbered + with his good cheer, began to find the undoing of the clasps of his armour + a task somewhat difficult, and addressed Anderson in these words, + interrupted by a slight hiccup,—“Anderson, my good friend, you may + read in Scripture, that he that putteth off his armour should not boast + himself like he that putteth it on—I believe that is not the right + word of command; but the plain truth of it is, I am like to sleep in my + corslet, like many an honest fellow that never waked again, unless you + unloose this buckle.” + </p> + <p> + “Undo his armour, Sibbald,” said Anderson to the other servant. + </p> + <p> + “By St. Andrew!” exclaimed the Captain, turning round in great + astonishment, “here’s a common fellow—a stipendiary with four pounds + a-year and a livery cloak, thinks himself too good to serve Ritt-master + Dugald Dalgetty of Drumthwacket, who has studied humanity at the + Mareschal-College of Aberdeen, and served half the princes of Europe!” + </p> + <p> + “Captain Dalgetty,” said Lord Menteith, whose lot it was to stand + peacemaker throughout the evening, “please to understand that Anderson + waits upon no one but myself; but I will help Sibbald to undo your corslet + with much pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + “Too much trouble for you, my lord,” said Dalgetty; “and yet it would do + you no harm to practise how a handsome harness is put on and put off. I + can step in and out of mine like a glove; only to-night, although not + EBRIUS, I am, in the classic phrase, VINO CIBOQUE GRAVATUS.” + </p> + <p> + By this time he was unshelled, and stood before the fire musing with a + face of drunken wisdom on the events of the evening. What seemed chiefly + to interest him, was the character of Allan M’Aulay. “To come over the + Englishmen so cleverly with his Highland torch-bearers—eight + bare-breeched Rories for six silver candlesticks!—it was a + master-piece—a TOUR DE PASSE—it was perfect legerdemain—and + to be a madman after all!—I doubt greatly, my lord” (shaking his + head), “that I must allow him, notwithstanding his relationship to your + lordship, the privileges of a rational person, and either batoon him + sufficiently to expiate the violence offered to my person, or else bring + it to a matter of mortal arbitrement, as becometh an insulted cavalier.” + </p> + <p> + “If you care to hear a long story,” said Lord Menteith, “at this time of + night, I can tell you how the circumstances of Allan’s birth account so + well for his singular character, as to put such satisfaction entirely out + of the question.” + </p> + <p> + “A long story, my lord,” said Captain Dalgetty, “is, next to a good + evening draught and a warm nightcap, the best shoeinghorn for drawing on a + sound sleep. And since your lordship is pleased to take the trouble to + tell it, I shall rest your patient and obliged auditor.” + </p> + <p> + “Anderson,” said Lord Menteith, “and you, Sibbald, are dying to hear, I + suppose, of this strange man too! and I believe I must indulge your + curiosity, that you may know how to behave to him in time of need. You had + better step to the fire then.” + </p> + <p> + Having thus assembled an audience about him, Lord Menteith sat down upon + the edge of the four-post bed, while Captain Dalgetty, wiping the relics + of the posset from his beard and mustachoes, and repeating the first verse + of the Lutheran psalm, ALLE GUTER GEISTER LOBEN DEN HERRN, etc. rolled + himself into one of the places of repose, and thrusting his shock pate + from between the blankets, listened to Lord Menteith’s relation in a most + luxurious state, between sleeping and waking. + </p> + <p> + “The father,” said Lord Menteith, “of the two brothers, Angus and Allan + M’Aulay, was a gentleman of consideration and family, being the chief of a + Highland clan, of good account, though not numerous; his lady, the mother + of these young men, was a gentlewoman of good family, if I may be + permitted to say so of one nearly connected with my own. Her brother, an + honourable and spirited young man, obtained from James the Sixth a grant + of forestry, and other privileges, over a royal chase adjacent to this + castle; and, in exercising and defending these rights, he was so + unfortunate as to involve himself in a quarrel with some of our Highland + freebooters or caterans, of whom I think, Captain Dalgetty, you must have + heard.” + </p> + <p> + “And that I have,” said the Captain, exerting himself to answer the + appeal. “Before I left the Mareschal-College of Aberdeen, Dugald Garr was + playing the devil in the Garioch, and the Farquharsons on Dee-side, and + the Clan Chattan on the Gordons’ lands, and the Grants and Camerons in + Moray-land. And since that, I have seen the Cravats and Pandours in + Pannonia and Transylvania, and the Cossacks from the Polish frontier, and + robbers, banditti, and barbarians of all countries besides, so that I have + a distinct idea of your broken Highlandmen.” + </p> + <p> + “The clan,” said Lord Menteith, “with whom the maternal uncle of the + M’Aulays had been placed in feud, was a small sept of banditti, called, + from their houseless state, and their incessantly wandering among the + mountains and glens, the Children of the Mist. They are a fierce and hardy + people, with all the irritability, and wild and vengeful passions, proper + to men who have never known the restraint of civilized society. A party of + them lay in wait for the unfortunate Warden of the Forest, surprised him + while hunting alone and unattended, and slew him with every circumstance + of inventive cruelty. They cut off his head, and resolved, in a bravado, + to exhibit it at the castle of his brother-in-law. The laird was absent, + and the lady reluctantly received as guests, men against whom, perhaps, + she was afraid to shut her gates. Refreshments were placed before the + Children of the Mist, who took an opportunity to take the head of their + victim from the plaid in which it was wrapt, placed it on the table, put a + piece of bread between the lifeless jaws, bidding them do their office + now, since many a good meal they had eaten at that table. The lady, who + had been absent for some household purpose, entered at this moment, and, + upon beholding her brother’s head, fled like an arrow out of the house + into the woods, uttering shriek upon shriek. The ruffians, satisfied with + this savage triumph, withdrew. The terrified menials, after overcoming the + alarm to which they had been subjected, sought their unfortunate mistress + in every direction, but she was nowhere to be found. The miserable husband + returned next day, and, with the assistance of his people, undertook a + more anxious and distant search, but to equally little purpose. It was + believed universally, that, in the ecstasy of her terror, she must either + have thrown herself over one of the numerous precipices which overhang the + river, or into a deep lake about a mile from the castle. Her loss was the + more lamented, as she was six months advanced in her pregnancy; Angus + M’Aulay, her eldest son, having been born about eighteen months before.—But + I tire you, Captain Dalgetty, and you seem inclined to sleep.” + </p> + <p> + “By no means,” answered the soldier; “I am no whit somnolent; I always + hear best with my eyes shut. It is a fashion I learned when I stood + sentinel.” + </p> + <p> + “And I daresay,” said Lord Menteith, aside to Anderson, “the weight of the + halberd of the sergeant of the rounds often made him open them.” + </p> + <p> + Being apparently, however, in the humour of story-telling, the young + nobleman went on, addressing himself chiefly to his servants, without + minding the slumbering veteran. + </p> + <p> + “Every baron in the country,” said he, “now swore revenge for this + dreadful crime. They took arms with the relations and brother-in-law of + the murdered person, and the Children of the Mist were hunted down, I + believe, with as little mercy as they had themselves manifested. Seventeen + heads, the bloody trophies of their vengeance, were distributed among the + allies, and fed the crows upon the gates of their castles. The survivors + sought out more distant wildernesses, to which they retreated.” + </p> + <p> + “To your right hand, counter-march and retreat to your former ground,” + said Captain Dalgetty; the military phrase having produced the + correspondent word of command; and then starting up, professed he had been + profoundly atttentive to every word that had been spoken. + </p> + <p> + “It is the custom in summer,” said Lord Menteith, without attending to his + apology, “to send the cows to the upland pastures to have the benefit of + the grass; and the maids of the village, and of the family, go there to + milk them in the morning and evening. While thus employed, the females of + this family, to their great terror, perceived that their motions were + watched at a distance by a pale, thin, meagre figure, bearing a strong + resemblance to their deceased mistress, and passing, of course, for her + apparition. When some of the boldest resolved to approach this faded form, + it fled from them into the woods with a wild shriek. The husband, informed + of this circumstance, came up to the glen with some attendants, and took + his measures so well as to intercept the retreat of the unhappy fugitive, + and to secure the person of his unfortunate lady, though her intellect + proved to be totally deranged. How she supported herself during her + wandering in the woods could not be known—some supposed she lived + upon roots and wild-berries, with which the woods at that season abounded; + but the greater part of the vulgar were satisfied that she must have + subsisted upon the milk of the wild does, or been nourished by the + fairies, or supported in some manner equally marvellous. Her re-appearance + was more easily accounted for. She had seen from the thicket the milking + of the cows, to superintend which had been her favourite domestic + employment, and the habit had prevailed even in her deranged state of + mind. + </p> + <p> + “In due season the unfortunate lady was delivered of a boy, who not only + showed no appearance of having suffered from his mother’s calamities, but + appeared to be an infant of uncommon health and strength. The unhappy + mother, after her confinement, recovered her reason—at least in a + great measure, but never her health and spirits. Allan was her only joy. + Her attention to him was unremitting; and unquestionably she must have + impressed upon his early mind many of those superstitious ideas to which + his moody and enthusiastic temper gave so ready a reception. She died when + he was about ten years old. Her last words were spoken to him in private; + but there is little doubt that they conveyed an injunction of vengeance + upon the Children of the Mist, with which he has since amply complied. + </p> + <p> + “From this moment, the habits of Allan M’Aulay were totally changed. He + had hitherto been his mother’s constant companion, listening to her + dreams, and repeating his own, and feeding his imagination, which, + probably from the circumstances preceding his birth, was constitutionally + deranged, with all the wild and terrible superstitions so common to the + mountaineers, to which his unfortunate mother had become much addicted + since her brother’s death. By living in this manner, the boy had gotten a + timid, wild, startled look, loved to seek out solitary places in the + woods, and was never so much terrified, as by the approach of children of + the same age. I remember, although some years younger, being brought up + here by my father upon a visit, nor can I forget the astonishment with + which I saw this infant-hermit shun every attempt I made to engage him in + the sports natural to our age. I can remember his father bewailing his + disposition to mine, and alleging, at the same time, that it was + impossible for him to take from his wife the company of the boy, as he + seemed to be the only consolation that remained to her in this world, and + as the amusement which Allan’s society afforded her seemed to prevent the + recurrence, at least in its full force, of that fearful malady by which + she had been visited. But, after the death of his mother, the habits and + manners of the boy seemed at once to change. It is true he remained as + thoughtful and serious as before; and long fits of silence and abstraction + showed plainly that his disposition, in this respect, was in no degree + altered. But at other times, he sought out the rendezvous of the youth of + the clan, which he had hitherto seemed anxious to avoid. He took share in + all their exercises; and, from his very extraordinary personal strength, + soon excelled his brother and other youths, whose age considerably + exceeded his own. They who had hitherto held him in contempt, now feared, + if they did not love him; and, instead of Allan’s being esteemed a + dreaming, womanish, and feeble-minded boy, those who encountered him in + sports or military exercise, now complained that, when heated by the + strife, he was too apt to turn game into earnest, and to forget that he + was only engaged in a friendly trial of strength.—But I speak to + regardless ears,” said Lord Menteith, interrupting himself, for the + Captain’s nose now gave the most indisputable signs that he was fast + locked in the arms of oblivion. + </p> + <p> + “If you mean the ears of that snorting swine, my lord,” said Anderson, + “they are, indeed, shut to anything that you can say; nevertheless, this + place being unfit for more private conference, I hope you will have the + goodness to proceed, for Sibbald’s benefit and for mine. The history of + this poor young fellow has a deep and wild interest in it.” + </p> + <p> + “You must know, then,” proceeded Lord Menteith, “that Allan continued to + increase in strength and activity, till his fifteenth year, about which + time he assumed a total independence of character, and impatience of + control, which much alarmed his surviving parent. He was absent in the + woods for whole days and nights, under pretence of hunting, though he did + not always bring home game. His father was the more alarmed, because + several of the Children of the Mist, encouraged by the increasing troubles + of the state, had ventured back to their old haunts, nor did he think it + altogether safe to renew any attack upon them. The risk of Allan, in his + wanderings, sustaining injury from these vindictive freebooters, was a + perpetual source of apprehension. + </p> + <p> + “I was myself upon a visit to the castle when this matter was brought to a + crisis. Allan had been absent since day-break in the woods, where I had + sought for him in vain; it was a dark stormy night, and he did not return. + His father expressed the utmost anxiety, and spoke of detaching a party at + the dawn of morning in quest of him; when, as we were sitting at the + supper-table, the door suddenly opened, and Allan entered the room with a + proud, firm, and confident air. His intractability of temper, as well as + the unsettled state of his mind, had such an influence over his father, + that he suppressed all other tokens of displeasure, excepting the + observation that I had killed a fat buck, and had returned before sunset, + while he supposed Allan, who had been on the hill till midnight, had + returned with empty hands. ‘Are you sure of that?’ said Allan, fiercely; + ‘here is something will tell you another tale.’ + </p> + <p> + “We now observed his hands were bloody, and that there were spots of blood + on his face, and waited the issue with impatience; when suddenly, undoing + the corner of his plaid, he rolled down on the table a human head, bloody + and new severed, saying at the same time, ‘Lie thou where the head of a + better man lay before ye.’ From the haggard features, and matted red hair + and beard, partly grizzled with age, his father and others present + recognised the head of Hector of the Mist, a well-known leader among the + outlaws, redoubted for strength and ferocity, who had been active in the + murder of the unfortunate Forester, uncle to Allan, and had escaped by a + desperate defence and extraordinary agility, when so many of his + companions were destroyed. We were all, it may be believed, struck with + surprise, but Allan refused to gratify our curiosity; and we only + conjectured that he must have overcome the outlaw after a desperate + struggle, because we discovered that he had sustained several wounds from + the contest. All measures were now taken to ensure him against the + vengeance of the freebooters; but neither his wounds, nor the positive + command of his father, nor even the locking of the gates of the castle and + the doors of his apartment, were precautions adequate to prevent Allan + from seeking out the very persons to whom he was peculiarly obnoxious. He + made his escape by night from the window of the apartment, and laughing at + his father’s vain care, produced on one occasion the head of one, and upon + another those of two, of the Children of the Mist. At length these men, + fierce as they were, became appalled by the inveterate animosity and + audacity with which Allan sought out their recesses. As he never hesitated + to encounter any odds, they concluded that he must bear a charmed life, or + fight under the guardianship of some supernatural influence. Neither gun, + dirk, nor dourlach [DOURLACH—quiver; literally, satchel—of + arrows.], they said, availed aught against him. They imputed this to the + remarkable circumstances under which he was born; and at length five or + six of the stoutest caterans of the Highlands would have fled at Allan’s + halloo, or the blast of his horn. + </p> + <p> + “In the meanwhile, however, the Children of the Mist carried on their old + trade, and did the M’Aulays, as well as their kinsmen and allies, as much + mischief as they could. This provoked another expedition against the + tribe, in which I had my share; we surprised them effectually, by + besetting at once the upper and under passes of the country, and made such + clean work as is usual on these occasions, burning and slaying right + before us. In this terrible species of war, even the females and the + helpless do not always escape. One little maiden alone, who smiled upon + Allan’s drawn dirk, escaped his vengeance upon my earnest entreaty. She + was brought to the castle, and here bred up under the name of Annot Lyle, + the most beautiful little fairy certainly that ever danced upon a heath by + moonlight. It was long ere Allan could endure the presence of the child, + until it occurred to his imagination, from her features perhaps, that she + did not belong to the hated blood of his enemies, but had become their + captive in some of their incursions; a circumstance not in itself + impossible, but in which he believes as firmly as in holy writ. He is + particularly delighted by her skill in music, which is so exquisite, that + she far exceeds the best performers in this country in playing on the + clairshach, or harp. It was discovered that this produced upon the + disturbed spirits of Allan, in his gloomiest moods, beneficial effects, + similar to those experienced by the Jewish monarch of old; and so engaging + is the temper of Annot Lyle, so fascinating the innocence and gaiety of + her disposition, that she is considered and treated in the castle rather + as the sister of the proprietor, than as a dependent upon his charity. + Indeed, it is impossible for any one to see her without being deeply + interested by the ingenuity, liveliness, and sweetness of her + disposition.” + </p> + <p> + “Take care, my lord,” said Anderson, smiling; “there is danger in such + violent commendations. Allan M’Aulay, as your lordship describes him, + would prove no very safe rival.” + </p> + <p> + “Pooh! pooh!” said Lord Menteith, laughing, yet blushing at the same time; + “Allan is not accessible to the passion of love; and for myself,” said he, + more gravely; “Annot’s unknown birth is a sufficient reason against + serious designs, and her unprotected state precludes every other.” + </p> + <p> + “It is spoken like yourself, my lord,” said Anderson.—“But I trust + you will proceed with your interesting story.” + </p> + <p> + “It is wellnigh finished,” said Lord Menteith; “I have only to add, that + from the great strength and courage of Allan M’Aulay, from his energetic + and uncontrollable disposition, and from an opinion generally entertained + and encouraged by himself that he holds communion with supernatural + beings, and can predict future events, the clan pay a much greater degree + of deference to him than even to his brother, who is a bold-hearted + rattling Highlander, but with nothing which can possibly rival the + extraordinary character of his younger brother.” + </p> + <p> + “Such a character,” said Anderson, “cannot but have the deepest effect on + the minds of a Highland host. We must secure Allan, my lord, at all + events. What between his bravery and his second sight—” + </p> + <p> + “Hush!” said Lord Menteith, “that owl is awaking.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you talk of the second sight, or DEUTERO-SCOPIA?” said the soldier; “I + remember memorable Major Munro telling me how Murdoch Mackenzie, born in + Assint, a private gentleman in a company, and a pretty soldier, foretold + the death of Donald Tough, a Lochaber man, and certain other persons, as + well as the hurt of the major himself at a sudden onfall at the siege of + Trailsund.” + </p> + <p> + “I have often heard of this faculty,” observed Anderson, “but I have + always thought those pretending to it were either enthusiasts or + impostors.” + </p> + <p> + “I should be loath,” said Lord Menteith, “to apply either character to my + kinsman, Allan M’Aulay. He has shown on many occasions too much acuteness + and sense, of which you this night had an instance, for the character of + an enthusiast; and his high sense of honour, and manliness of disposition, + free him from the charge of imposture.” + </p> + <p> + “Your lordship, then,” said Anderson, “is a believer in his supernatural + attributes?” + </p> + <p> + “By no means,” said the young nobleman; “I think that he persuades himself + that the predictions which are, in reality, the result of judgment and + reflection, are supernatural impressions on his mind, just as fanatics + conceive the workings of their own imagination to be divine inspiration—at + least, if this will not serve you, Anderson, I have no better explanation + to give; and it is time we were all asleep after the toilsome journey of + the day.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Coming events cast their shadows before.—CAMPBELL. +</pre> + <p> + At an early hour in the morning the guests of the castle sprung from their + repose; and, after a moment’s private conversation with his attendants, + Lord Menteith addressed the soldier, who was seated in a corner burnishing + his corslet with rot-stone and chamois-leather, while he hummed the old + song in honour of the victorious Gustavus Adolphus:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + When cannons are roaring, and bullets are flying, + The lad that would have honour, boys, must never fear dying. +</pre> + <p> + “Captain Dalgetty,” said Lord Menteith, “the time is come that we must + part, or become comrades in service.” + </p> + <p> + “Not before breakfast, I hope?” said Captain Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + “I should have thought,” replied his lordship, “that your garrison was + victualled for three days at least.” + </p> + <p> + “I have still some stowage left for beef and bannocks,” said the Captain; + “and I never miss a favourable opportunity of renewing my supplies.” + </p> + <p> + “But,” said Lord Menteith, “no judicious commander allows either flags of + truce or neutrals to remain in his camp longer than is prudent; and + therefore we must know your mind exactly, according to which you shall + either have a safe-conduct to depart in peace, or be welcome to remain + with us.” + </p> + <p> + “Truly,” said the Captain, “that being the case, I will not attempt to + protract the capitulation by a counterfeited parley, (a thing excellently + practised by Sir James Ramsay at the siege of Hannau, in the year of God + 1636,) but I will frankly own, that if I like your pay as well as your + provant and your company, I care not how soon I take the oath to your + colours.” + </p> + <p> + “Our pay,” said Lord Menteith, “must at present be small, since it is paid + out of the common stock raised by the few amongst us who can command some + funds—As major and adjutant, I dare not promise Captain Dalgetty + more than half a dollar a-day.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil take all halves and quarters!” said the Captain; “were it in my + option, I could no more consent to the halving of that dollar, than the + woman in the Judgment of Solomon to the disseverment of the child of her + bowels.” + </p> + <p> + “The parallel will scarce hold, Captain Dalgetty, for I think you would + rather consent to the dividing of the dollar, than give it up entire to + your competitor. However, in the way of arrears, I may promise you the + other half-dollar at the end of the campaign.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! these arrearages!” said Captain Dalgetty, “that are always promised, + and always go for nothing! Spain, Austria, and Sweden, all sing one song. + Oh! long life to the Hoganmogans! if they were no officers of soldiers, + they were good paymasters.—And yet, my lord, if I could but be made + certiorate that my natural hereditament of Drumthwacket had fallen into + possession of any of these loons of Covenanters, who could be, in the + event of our success, conveniently made a traitor of, I have so much value + for that fertile and pleasant spot, that I would e’en take on with you for + the campaign.” + </p> + <p> + “I can resolve Captain Dalgetty’s question,” said Sibbald, Lord Menteith’s + second attendant; “for if his estate of Drumthwacket be, as I conceive, + the long waste moor so called, that lies five miles south of Aberdeen, I + can tell him it was lately purchased by Elias Strachan, as rank a rebel as + ever swore the Covenant.” + </p> + <p> + “The crop-eared hound!” said Captain Dalgetty, in a rage; “What the devil + gave him the assurance to purchase the inheritance of a family of four + hundred years standing?—CYNTHIUS AUREM VELLET, as we used to say at + Mareschal-College; that is to say, I will pull him out of my father’s + house by the ears. And so, my Lord Menteith, I am yours, hand and sword, + body and soul, till death do us part, or to the end of the next campaign, + whichever event shall first come to pass.” + </p> + <p> + “And I,” said the young nobleman, “rivet the bargain with a month’s pay in + advance.” + </p> + <p> + “That is more than necessary,” said Dalgetty, pocketing the money however. + “But now I must go down, look after my war-saddle and abuilziements, and + see that Gustavus has his morning, and tell him we have taken new + service.” + </p> + <p> + “There goes your precious recruit,” said Lord Menteith to Anderson, as the + Captain left the room; “I fear we shall have little credit of him.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a man of the times, however,” said Anderson; “and without such we + should hardly be able to carry on our enterprise.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us go down,” answered Lord Menteith, “and see how our muster is + likely to thrive, for I hear a good deal of bustle in the castle.” + </p> + <p> + When they entered the hall, the domestics keeping modestly in the + background, morning greetings passed between Lord Menteith, Angus M’Aulay, + and his English guests, while Allan, occupying the same settle which he + had filled the preceding evening, paid no attention whatever to any one. + Old Donald hastily rushed into the apartment. “A message from Vich Alister + More; [The patronymic of MacDonell of Glengarry.] he is coming up in the + evening.” + </p> + <p> + “With how many attendants?” said M’Aulay. + </p> + <p> + “Some five-and-twenty or thirty,” said Donald, “his ordinary retinue.” + </p> + <p> + “Shake down plenty of straw in the great barn,” said the Laird. + </p> + <p> + Another servant here stumbled hastily in, announcing the expected approach + of Sir Hector M’Lean, “who is arriving with a large following.” + </p> + <p> + “Put them in the malt-kiln,” said M’Aulay; “and keep the breadth of the + middenstead between them and the M’Donalds; they are but unfriends to each + other.” + </p> + <p> + Donald now re-entered, his visage considerably lengthened—“The + tell’s i’ the folk,” he said; “the haill Hielands are asteer, I think. + Evan Dhu, of Lochiel, will be here in an hour, with Lord kens how many + gillies.” + </p> + <p> + “Into the great barn with them beside the M’Donalds,” said the Laird. + </p> + <p> + More and more chiefs were announced, the least of whom would have + accounted it derogatory to his dignity to stir without a retinue of six or + seven persons. To every new annunciation, Angus M’Aulay answered by naming + some place of accommodation,—the stables, the loft, the cow-house, + the sheds, every domestic office, were destined for the night to some + hospitable purpose or other. At length the arrival of M’Dougal of Lorn, + after all his means of accommodation were exhausted, reduced him to some + perplexity. “What the devil is to be done, Donald?” said he; “the great + barn would hold fifty more, if they would lie heads and thraws; but there + would be drawn dirks amang them which should lie upper-most, and so we + should have bloody puddings before morning!” + </p> + <p> + “What needs all this?” said Allan, starting up, and coming forward with + the stern abruptness of his usual manner; “are the Gael to-day of softer + flesh or whiter blood than their fathers were? Knock the head out of a + cask of usquebae; let that be their night-gear—their plaids their + bed-clothes—the blue sky their canopy, and the heather their couch.—Come + a thousand more, and they would not quarrel on the broad heath for want of + room!” + </p> + <p> + “Allan is right,” said his brother; “it is very odd how Allan, who, + between ourselves,” said he to Musgrave, “is a little wowf, [WOWF, i.e. + crazed.] seems at times to have more sense than us all put together. + Observe him now.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” continued Allan, fixing his eyes with a ghastly stare upon the + opposite side of the hall, “they may well begin as they are to end; many a + man will sleep this night upon the heath, that when the Martinmas wind + shalt blow shall lie there stark enough, and reck little of cold or lack + of covering.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not forespeak us, brother,” said Angus; “that is not lucky.” + </p> + <p> + “And what luck is it then that you expect?” said Allan; and straining his + eyes until they almost started from their sockets, he fell with a + convulsive shudder into the arms of Donald and his brother, who, knowing + the nature of his fits, had come near to prevent his fall. They seated him + upon a bench, and supported him until he came to himself, and was about to + speak. + </p> + <p> + “For God’s sake, Allan,” said his brother, who knew the impression his + mystical words were likely to make on many of the guests, “say nothing to + discourage us.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I he who discourages you?” said Allan; “let every man face his world + as I shall face mine. That which must come, will come; and we shall stride + gallantly over many a field of victory, ere we reach yon fatal + slaughter-place, or tread yon sable scaffolds.” + </p> + <p> + “What slaughter-place? what scaffolds?” exclaimed several voices; for + Allan’s renown as a seer was generally established in the Highlands. + </p> + <p> + “You will know that but too soon,” answered Allan. “Speak to me no more, I + am weary of your questions.” He then pressed his hand against his brow, + rested his elbow upon his knee, and sunk into a deep reverie. + </p> + <p> + “Send for Annot Lyle, and the harp,” said Angus, in a whisper, to his + servant; “and let those gentlemen follow me who do not fear a Highland + breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + All accompanied their hospitable landlord excepting only Lord Menteith, + who lingered in one of the deep embrasures formed by the windows of the + hall. Annot Lyle shortly after glided into the room, not ill described by + Lord Menteith as being the lightest and most fairy figure that ever trode + the turf by moonlight. Her stature, considerably less than the ordinary + size of women, gave her the appearance of extreme youth, insomuch, that + although she was near eighteen, she might have passed for four years + younger. Her figure, hands, and feet, were formed upon a model of + exquisite symmetry with the size and lightness of her person, so that + Titania herself could scarce have found a more fitting representative. Her + hair was a dark shade of the colour usually termed flaxen, whose + clustering ringlets suited admirably with her fair complexion, and with + the playful, yet simple, expression of her features. When we add to these + charms, that Annot, in her orphan state, seemed the gayest and happiest of + maidens, the reader must allow us to claim for her the interest of almost + all who looked on her. In fact, it was impossible to find a more universal + favourite, and she often came among the rude inhabitants of the castle, as + Allan himself, in a poetical mood, expressed it, “like a sunbeam on a + sullen sea,” communicating to all others the cheerfulness that filled her + own mind. + </p> + <p> + Annot, such as we have described her, smiled and blushed, when, on + entering the apartment, Lord Menteith came from his place of retirement, + and kindly wished her good-morning. + </p> + <p> + “And good-morning to you, my lord,” returned she, extending her hand to + her friend; “we have seldom seen you of late at the castle, and now I fear + it is with no peaceful purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “At least, let me not interrupt your harmony, Annot,” said Lord Menteith, + “though my arrival may breed discord elsewhere. My cousin Allan needs the + assistance of your voice and music.” + </p> + <p> + “My preserver,” said Annot Lyle, “has a right to my poor exertions; and + you, too, my lord,—you, too, are my preserver, and were the most + active to save a life that is worthless enough, unless it can benefit my + protectors.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, she sate down at a little distance upon the bench on which + Allan M’Aulay was placed, and tuning her clairshach, a small harp, about + thirty inches in height, she accompanied it with her voice. The air was an + ancient Gaelic melody, and the words, which were supposed to be very old, + were in the same language; but we subjoin a translation of them, by + Secundus Macpherson, Esq. of Glenforgen, which, although submitted to the + fetters of English rhythm, we trust will be found nearly as genuine as the + version of Ossian by his celebrated namesake. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Birds of omen dark and foul, + Night-crow, raven, bat, and owl, + Leave the sick man to his dream— + All night long he heard your scream— + Haste to cave and ruin’d tower, + Ivy, tod, or dingled bower, + There to wink and mope, for, hark! + In the mid air sings the lark. + + “Hie to moorish gills and rocks, + Prowling wolf and wily fox,— + Hie you fast, nor turn your view, + Though the lamb bleats to the ewe. + Couch your trains, and speed your flight, + Safety parts with parting night; + And on distant echo borne, + Comes the hunter’s early horn. + + “The moon’s wan crescent scarcely gleams, + Ghost-like she fades in morning beams; + Hie hence each peevish imp and fay, + That scare the pilgrim on his way:— + Quench, kelpy! quench, in bog and fen, + Thy torch that cheats benighted men; + Thy dance is o’er, thy reign is done, + For Benyieglo hath seen the sun. + + “Wild thoughts, that, sinful, dark, and deep, + O’erpower the passive mind in sleep, + Pass from the slumberer’s soul away, + Like night-mists from the brow of day: + Foul hag, whose blasted visage grim + Smothers the pulse, unnerves the limb, + Spur thy dark palfrey, and begone! + Thou darest not face the godlike sun.” + </pre> + <p> + As the strain proceeded, Allan M’Aulay gradually gave signs of recovering + his presence of mind, and attention to the objects around him. The + deep-knit furrows of his brow relaxed and smoothed themselves; and the + rest of his features, which had seemed contorted with internal agony, + relapsed into a more natural state. When he raised his head and sat + upright, his countenance, though still deeply melancholy, was divested of + its wildness and ferocity; and in its composed state, although by no means + handsome, the expression of his features was striking, manly, and even + noble. His thick, brown eyebrows, which had hitherto been drawn close + together, were now slightly separated, as in the natural state; and his + grey eyes, which had rolled and flashed from under them with an unnatural + and portentous gleam, now recovered a steady and determined expression. + </p> + <p> + “Thank God!” he said, after sitting silent for about a minute, until the + very last sounds of the harp had ceased to vibrate, “my soul is no longer + darkened—the mist hath passed from my spirit.” + </p> + <p> + “You owe thanks, cousin Allan,” said Lord Menteith, coming forward, “to + Annot Lyle, as well as to heaven, for this happy change in your melancholy + mood.” + </p> + <p> + “My noble cousin Menteith,” said Allan, rising and greeting him very + respectfully, as well as kindly, “has known my unhappy circumstances so + long, that his goodness will require no excuse for my being thus late in + bidding him welcome to the castle.” + </p> + <p> + “We are too old acquaintances, Allan,” said Lord Menteith, “and too good + friends, to stand on the ceremonial of outward greeting; but half the + Highlands will be here to-day, and you know, with our mountain Chiefs, + ceremony must not be neglected. What will you give little Annot for making + you fit company to meet Evan Dhu, and I know not how many bonnets and + feathers?” + </p> + <p> + “What will he give me?” said Annot, smiling; “nothing less, I hope, than + the best ribbon at the Fair of Doune.” + </p> + <p> + “The Fair of Doune, Annot?” said Allan sadly; “there will be bloody work + before that day, and I may never see it; but you have well reminded me of + what I have long intended to do.” + </p> + <p> + Having said this, he left the room. + </p> + <p> + “Should he talk long in this manner,” said Lord Menteith, “you must keep + your harp in tune, my dear Annot.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope not,” said Annot, anxiously; “this fit has been a long one, and + probably will not soon return. It is fearful to see a mind, naturally + generous and affectionate, afflicted by this constitutional malady.” + </p> + <p> + As she spoke in a low and confidential tone, Lord Menteith naturally drew + close, and stooped forward, that he might the better catch the sense of + what she said. When Allan suddenly entered the apartment, they as + naturally drew back from each other with a manner expressive of + consciousness, as if surprised in a conversation which they wished to keep + secret from him. This did not escape Allan’s observation; he stopt short + at the door of the apartment—his brows were contracted—his + eyes rolled; but it was only the paroxysm of a moment. He passed his broad + sinewy hand across his brow, as if to obliterate these signs of emotion, + and advanced towards Annot, holding in his hand a very small box made of + oakwood, curiously inlaid. “I take you to witness,” he said, “cousin + Menteith, that I give this box and its contents to Annot Lyle. It contains + a few ornaments that belonged to my poor mother—of trifling value, + you may guess, for the wife of a Highland laird has seldom a rich + jewel-casket.” + </p> + <p> + “But these ornaments,” said Annot Lyle, gently and timidly refusing the + box, “belong to the family—I cannot accept—” + </p> + <p> + “They belong to me alone, Annot,” said Allan, interrupting her; “they were + my mother’s dying bequest. They are all I can call my own, except my plaid + and my claymore. Take them, therefore—they are to me valueless + trinkets—and keep them for my sake—should I never return from + these wars.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he opened the case, and presented it to Annot. “If,” said he, + “they are of any value, dispose of them for your own support, when this + house has been consumed with hostile fire, and can no longer afford you + protection. But keep one ring in memory of Allan, who has done, to requite + your kindness, if not all he wished, at least all he could.” + </p> + <p> + Annot Lyle endeavoured in vain to restrain the gathering tears, when she + said, “ONE ring, Allan, I will accept from you as a memorial of your + goodness to a poor orphan, but do not press me to take more; for I cannot, + and will not, accept a gift of such disproportioned value.” + </p> + <p> + “Make your choice, then,” said Allan; “your delicacy may be well founded; + the others will assume a shape in which they may be more useful to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Think not of it,” said Annot, choosing from the contents of the casket a + ring, apparently the most trifling in value which it contained; “keep them + for your own, or your brother’s bride.—But, good heavens!” she said, + interrupting herself, and looking at the ring, “what is this that I have + chosen?” + </p> + <p> + Allan hastened to look upon it, with eyes of gloomy apprehension; it bore, + in enamel, a death’s head above two crossed daggers. When Allan recognised + the device, he uttered a sigh so deep, that she dropped the ring from her + hand, which rolled upon the floor. Lord Menteith picked it up, and + returned it to the terrified Annot. + </p> + <p> + “I take God to witness,” said Allan, in a solemn tone, “that your hand, + young lord, and not mine, has again delivered to her this ill-omened gift. + It was the mourning ring worn by my mother in memorial of her murdered + brother.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear no omens,” said Annot, smiling through her tears; “and nothing + coming through the hands of my two patrons,” so she was wont to call Lord + Menteith and Allan, “can bring bad luck to the poor orphan.” + </p> + <p> + She put the ring on her finger, and, turning to her harp, sung, to a + lively air, the following verses of one of the fashionable songs of the + period, which had found its way, marked as it was with the quaint + hyperbolical taste of King Charles’s time, from some court masque to the + wilds of Perthshire:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Gaze not upon the stars, fond sage, + In them no influence lies; + To read the fate of youth or age, + Look on my Helen’s eyes. + + “Yet, rash astrologer, refrain! + Too dearly would be won + The prescience of another’s pain, + If purchased by thine own.” + </pre> + <p> + “She is right, Allan,” said Lord Menteith; “and this end of an old song is + worth all we shall gain by our attempt to look into futurity.” + </p> + <p> + “She is WRONG, my lord,” said Allan, sternly, “though you, who treat with + lightness the warnings I have given you, may not live to see the event of + the omen.—laugh not so scornfully,” he added, interrupting himself + “or rather laugh on as loud and as long as you will; your term of laughter + will find a pause ere long.” + </p> + <p> + “I care not for your visions, Allan,” said Lord Menteith; “however short + my span of life, the eye of no Highland seer can see its termination.” + </p> + <p> + “For heaven’s sake,” said Annot Lyle, interrupting him, “you know his + nature, and how little he can endure—” + </p> + <p> + “Fear me not,” said Allan, interrupting her,—“my mind is now + constant and calm.—But for you, young lord,” said he, turning to + Lord Menteith, “my eye has sought you through fields of battle, where + Highlanders and Lowlanders lay strewed as thick as ever the rooks sat on + those ancient trees,” pointing to a rookery which was seen from the window—“my + eye sought you, but your corpse was not there—my eye sought you + among a train of unresisting and disarmed captives, drawn up within the + bounding walls of an ancient and rugged fortress;—flash after flash—platoon + after platoon—the hostile shot fell amongst them, They dropped like + the dry leaves in autumn, but you were not among their ranks;—scaffolds + were prepared—blocks were arranged, saw-dust was spread—the + priest was ready with his book, the headsman with his axe—but there, + too, mine eye found you not.” + </p> + <p> + “The gibbet, then, I suppose, must be my doom?” said Lord Menteith. “Yet I + wish they had spared me the halter, were it but for the dignity of the + peerage.” + </p> + <p> + He spoke this scornfully, yet not without a sort of curiosity, and a wish + to receive an answer; for the desire of prying into futurity frequently + has some influence even on the minds of those who disavow all belief in + the possibility of such predictions. + </p> + <p> + “Your rank, my lord, will suffer no dishonour in your person, or by the + manner of your death. Three times have I seen a Highlander plant his dirk + in your bosom—and such will be your fate.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you would describe him to me,” said Lord Menteith, “and I shall + save him the trouble of fulfilling your prophecy, if his plaid be passible + to sword or pistol.” + </p> + <p> + “Your weapons,” said Allan, “would avail you little; nor can I give you + the information you desire. The face of the vision has been ever averted + from me.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it then,” said Lord Menteith, “and let it rest in the uncertainty + in which your augury has placed it. I shall dine not the less merrily + among plaids, and dirks, and kilts to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be so,” said Allan; “and, it may be, you do well to enjoy these + moments, which to me are poisoned by auguries of future evil. But I,” he + continued—“I repeat to you, that this weapon—that is, such a + weapon as this,” touching the hilt of the dirk which he wore, “carries + your fate.” “In the meanwhile,” said Lord Menteith, “you, Allan, have + frightened the blood from the cheeks of Annot Lyle—let us leave this + discourse, my friend, and go to see what we both understand,—the + progress of our military preparations.” + </p> + <p> + They joined Angus M’Aulay and his English guests, and, in the military + discussions which immediately took place, Allan showed a clearness of + mind, strength of judgment, and precision of thought, totally inconsistent + with the mystical light in which his character has been hitherto + exhibited. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + When Albin her claymore indignantly draws, + When her bonneted chieftains around her shall crowd, + Clan-Ranald the dauntless, and Moray the proud, + All plaided and plumed in their tartan array—LOCHEIL’S WARNING. +</pre> + <p> + Whoever saw that morning, the Castle of Darnlinvarach, beheld a busy and a + gallant sight. + </p> + <p> + The various Chiefs, arriving with their different retinues, which, + notwithstanding their numbers, formed no more than their usual equipage + and body-guard upon occasions of solemnity, saluted the lord of the castle + and each other with overflowing kindness, or with haughty and distant + politeness, according to the circumstances of friendship or hostility in + which their clans had recently stood to each other. Each Chief, however + small his comparative importance, showed the full disposition to exact + from the rest the deference due to a separate and independent prince; + while the stronger and more powerful, divided among themselves by recent + contentions or ancient feuds, were constrained in policy to use great + deference to the feelings of their less powerful brethren, in order, in + case of need, to attach as many well-wishers as might be to their own + interest and standard. Thus the meeting of Chiefs resembled not a little + those ancient Diets of the Empire, where the smallest FREY-GRAF, who + possessed a castle perched upon a barren crag, with a few hundred acres + around it, claimed the state and honours of a sovereign prince, and a seat + according to his rank among the dignitaries of the Empire. + </p> + <p> + The followers of the different leaders were separately arranged and + accommodated, as room and circumstances best permitted, each retaining + however his henchman, who waited, close as the shadow, upon his person, to + execute whatever might be required by his patron. + </p> + <p> + The exterior of the castle afforded a singular scene. The Highlanders, + from different islands, glens, and straths, eyed each other at a distance + with looks of emulation, inquisitive curiosity, or hostile malevolence; + but the most astounding part of the assembly, at least to a Lowland ear, + was the rival performance of the bagpipers. These warlike minstrels, who + had the highest opinion, each, of the superiority of his own tribe, joined + to the most overweening idea of the importance connected with his + profession, at first, performed their various pibrochs in front each of + his own clan. At length, however, as the black-cocks towards the end of + the season, when, in sportsman’s language, they are said to flock or + crowd, attracted together by the sound of each others’ triumphant crow, + even so did the pipers, swelling their plaids and tartans in the same + triumphant manner in which the birds ruffle up their feathers, begin to + approach each other within such distance as might give to their brethren a + sample of their skill. Walking within a short interval, and eyeing each + other with looks in which self-importance and defiance might be traced, + they strutted, puffed, and plied their screaming instruments, each playing + his own favourite tune with such a din, that if an Italian musician had + lain buried within ten miles of them, he must have risen from the dead to + run out of hearing. + </p> + <p> + The Chieftains meanwhile had assembled in close conclave in the great hall + of the castle. Among them were the persons of the greatest consequence in + the Highlands, some of them attracted by zeal for the royal cause, and + many by aversion to that severe and general domination which the Marquis + of Argyle, since his rising to such influence in the state, had exercised + over his Highland neighbours. That statesman, indeed, though possessed of + considerable abilities, and great power, had failings, which rendered him + unpopular among the Highland chiefs. The devotion which he professed was + of a morose and fanatical character; his ambition appeared to be + insatiable, and inferior chiefs complained of his want of bounty and + liberality. Add to this, that although a Highlander, and of a family + distinguished for valour before and since, Gillespie Grumach [GRUMACH—ill-favored.] + (which, from an obliquity in his eyes, was the personal distinction he + bore in the Highlands, where titles of rank are unknown) was suspected of + being a better man in the cabinet than in the field. He and his tribe were + particularly obnoxious to the M’Donalds and the M’Leans, two numerous + septs, who, though disunited by ancient feuds, agreed in an intense + dislike to the Campbells, or, as they were called, the Children of + Diarmid. + </p> + <p> + For some time the assembled Chiefs remained silent, until some one should + open the business of the meeting. At length one of the most powerful of + them commenced the diet by saying,—“We have been summoned hither, + M’Aulay, to consult of weighty matters concerning the King’s affairs, and + those of the state; and we crave to know by whom they are to be explained + to us?” + </p> + <p> + M’Aulay, whose strength did not lie in oratory, intimated his wish that + Lord Menteith should open the business of the council. With great modesty, + and at the same time with spirit, that young lord said, “he wished what he + was about to propose had come from some person of better known and more + established character. Since, however, it lay with him to be spokesman, he + had to state to the Chiefs assembled, that those who wished to throw off + the base yoke which fanaticism had endeavoured to wreath round their + necks, had not a moment to lose. ‘The Covenanters,’” he said, “after + having twice made war upon their sovereign, and having extorted from him + every request, reasonable or unreasonable, which they thought proper to + demand—after their Chiefs had been loaded with dignities and favours—after + having publicly declared, when his Majesty, after a gracious visit to the + land of his nativity, was upon his return to England, that he returned a + contented king from a contented people,—after all this, and without + even the pretext for a national grievance, the same men have, upon doubts + and suspicions, equally dishonourable to the King, and groundless in + themselves, detached a strong army to assist his rebels in England, in a + quarrel with which Scotland had no more to do than she has with the wars + in Germany. It was well,” he said, “that the eagerness with which this + treasonable purpose was pursued, had blinded the junta who now usurped the + government of Scotland to the risk which they were about to incur. The + army which they had dispatched to England under old Leven comprehended + their veteran soldiers, the strength of those armies which had been levied + in Scotland during the two former wars—” + </p> + <p> + Here Captain Dalgetty endeavoured to rise, for the purpose of explaining + how many veteran officers, trained in the German wars, were, to his + certain knowledge, in the army of the Earl of Leven. But Allan M’Aulay + holding him down in his seat with one hand, pressed the fore-finger of the + other upon his own lips, and, though with some difficulty, prevented his + interference. Captain Dalgetty looked upon him with a very scornful and + indignant air, by which the other’s gravity was in no way moved, and Lord + Menteith proceeded without farther interruption. + </p> + <p> + “The moment,” he said, “was most favourable for all true-hearted and loyal + Scotchmen to show, that the reproach their country had lately undergone + arose from the selfish ambition of a few turbulent and seditious men, + joined to the absurd fanaticism which, disseminated from five hundred + pulpits, had spread like a land-flood over the Lowlands of Scotland. He + had letters from the Marquis of Huntly in the north, which he should show + to the Chiefs separately. That nobleman, equally loyal and powerful was + determined to exert his utmost energy in the common cause, and the + powerful Earl of Seaforth was prepared to join the same standard. From the + Earl of Airly, and the Ogilvies in Angusshire, he had had communications + equally decided; and there was no doubt that these, who, with the Hays, + Leiths, Burnets, and other loyal gentlemen, would be soon on horseback, + would form a body far more than sufficient to overawe the northern + Covenanters, who had already experienced their valour in the well-known + rout which was popularly termed the Trot of Turiff. South of Forth and + Tay,” he said, “the King had many friends, who, oppressed by enforced + oaths, compulsatory levies, heavy taxes, unjustly imposed and unequally + levied, by the tyranny of the Committee of Estates, and the inquisitorial + insolence of the Presbyterian divines, waited but the waving of the royal + banner to take up arms. Douglas, Traquair, Roxburgh, Hume, all friendly to + the royal cause, would counterbalance,” he said, “the covenanting interest + in the south; and two gentlemen, of name and quality, here present, from + the north of England, would answer for the zeal of Cumberland, + Westmoreland, and Northumberland. Against so many gallant gentlemen the + southern Covenanters could but arm raw levies; the Whigamores of the + western shires, and the ploughmen and mechanics of the Low-country. For + the West Highlands, he knew no interest which the Covenanters possessed + there, except that of one individual, as well known as he was odious. But + was there a single man, who, on casting his eye round this hall, and + recognising the power, the gallantry, and the dignity of the chiefs + assembled, could entertain a moment’s doubt of their success against the + utmost force which Gillespie Grumach could collect against them? He had + only farther to add, that considerable funds, both of money and + ammunition, had been provided for the army”—(Here Dalgetty pricked + up his ears)—“that officers of ability and experience in the foreign + wars, one of whom was now present,” (the Captain drew himself up, and + looked round,) “had engaged to train such levies as might require to be + disciplined;—and that a numerous body of auxiliary forces from + Ireland, having been detached from the Earl of Antrim, from Ulster, had + successfully accomplished their descent upon the main land, and, with the + assistance of Clanranald’s people, having taken and fortified the Castle + of Mingarry, in spite of Argyle’s attempts to intercept them, were in full + march to this place of rendezvous. It only remained,” he said, “that the + noble Chiefs assembled, laying aside every lesser consideration, should + unite, heart and hand, in the common cause; send the fiery cross through + their clans, in order to collect their utmost force, and form their + junction with such celerity as to leave the enemy no time, either for + preparation, or recovery from the panic which would spread at the first + sound of their pibroch. He himself,” he said, “though neither among the + richest nor the most powerful of the Scottish nobility, felt that he had + to support the dignity of an ancient and honourable house, the + independence of an ancient and honourable nation, and to that cause he was + determined to devote both life and fortune. If those who were more + powerful were equally prompt, he trusted they would deserve the thanks of + their King, and the gratitude of posterity.” + </p> + <p> + Loud applause followed this speech of Lord Menteith, and testified the + general acquiescence of all present in the sentiments which he had + expressed; but when the shout had died away, the assembled Chiefs + continued to gaze upon each other as if something yet remained to be + settled. After some whispers among themselves, an aged man, whom his grey + hairs rendered respectable, although he was not of the highest order of + Chiefs, replied to what had been said. + </p> + <p> + “Thane of Menteith,” he said, “you have well spoken; nor is there one of + us in whose bosom the same sentiments do not burn like fire. But it is not + strength alone that wins the fight; it is the head of the commander, as + well as the arm of the soldier, that brings victory. I ask of you who is + to raise and sustain the banner under which we are invited to rise and + muster ourselves? Will it be expected that we should risk our children, + and the flower of our kinsmen, ere we know to whose guidance they are to + be intrusted? This were leading those to slaughter, whom, by the laws of + God and man, it is our duty to protect. Where is the royal commission, + under which the lieges are to be convocated in arms? Simple and rude as we + may be deemed, we know something of the established rules of war, as well + as of the laws of our country; nor will we arm ourselves against the + general peace of Scotland, unless by the express commands of the King, and + under a leader fit to command such men as are here assembled.” + </p> + <p> + “Where would you find such a leader,” said another Chief, starting up, + “saving the representative of the Lord of the Isles, entitled by birth and + hereditary descent to lead forth the array of every clan of the Highlands; + and where is that dignity lodged, save in the house of Vich Alister More?” + </p> + <p> + “I acknowledge,” said another Chief, eagerly interrupting the speaker, + “the truth in what has been first said, but not the inference. If Vich + Alister More desires to be held representative of the Lord of the Isles, + let him first show his blood is redder than mine.” + </p> + <p> + “That is soon tried,” said Vich Alister More, laying his hand upon the + basket hilt of his claymore. Lord Menteith threw himself between them, + entreating and imploring each to remember that the interests of Scotland, + the liberty of their country, and the cause of their King, ought to be + superior in their eyes to any personal disputes respecting descent, rank, + and precedence. Several of the Highland Chiefs, who had no desire to admit + the claims of either chieftain, interfered to the same purpose, and none + with more emphasis than the celebrated Evan Dhu. + </p> + <p> + “I have come from my lakes,” he said, “as a stream descends from the + hills, not to turn again, but to accomplish my course. It is not by + looking back to our own pretensions that we shall serve Scotland or King + Charles. My voice shall be for that general whom the King shall name, who + will doubtless possess those qualities which are necessary to command men + like us. High-born he must be, or we shall lose our rank in obeying him—wise + and skilful, or we shall endanger the safety of our people—bravest + among the brave, or we shall peril our own honour—temperate, firm, + and manly, to keep us united. Such is the man that must command us. Are + you prepared, Thane of Menteith, to say where such a general is to be + found?” + </p> + <p> + “There is but ONE,” said Allan M’Aulay; “and here,” he said, laying his + hand upon the shoulder of Anderson, who stood behind Lord Menteith, “here + he stands!” + </p> + <p> + The general surprise of the meeting was expressed by an impatient murmur; + when Anderson, throwing back the cloak in which his face was muffled, and + stepping forward, spoke thus:—“I did not long intend to be a silent + spectator of this interesting scene, although my hasty friend has obliged + me to disclose myself somewhat sooner than was my intention. Whether I + deserve the honour reposed in me by this parchment will best appear from + what I shall be able to do for the King’s service. It is a commission + under the great seal, to James Graham, Earl of Montrose, to command those + forces which are to be assembled for the service of his Majesty in this + kingdom.” + </p> + <p> + A loud shout of approbation burst from the assembly. There was, in fact, + no other person to whom, in point of rank, these proud mountaineers would + have been disposed to submit. His inveterate and hereditary hostility to + the Marquis of Argyle insured his engaging in the war with sufficient + energy, while his well-known military talents, and his tried valour, + afforded every hope of his bringing it to a favourable conclusion. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Our plot is a good plot as ever was laid; our friends true and + constant: a good plot, good friends, and full of expectation: + an excellent plot, very good friends.—HENRY IV Part I. +</pre> + <p> + No sooner had the general acclamation of joyful surprise subsided, than + silence was eagerly demanded for reading the royal commission; and the + bonnets, which hitherto each Chief had worn, probably because unwilling to + be the first to uncover, were now at once vailed in honour of the royal + warrant. It was couched in the most full and ample terms, authorizing the + Earl of Montrose to assemble the subjects in arms, for the putting down + the present rebellion, which divers traitors and seditious persons had + levied against the King, to the manifest forfaulture, as it stated, of + their allegiance, and to the breach of the pacification between the two + kingdoms. It enjoined all subordinate authorities to be obedient and + assisting to Montrose in his enterprise; gave him the power of making + ordinances and proclamations, punishing misdemeanours, pardoning + criminals, placing and displacing governors and commanders. In fine, it + was as large and full a commission as any with which a prince could + intrust a subject. As soon as it was finished, a shout burst from the + assembled Chiefs, in testimony of their ready submission to the will of + their sovereign. Not contented with generally thanking them for a + reception so favourable, Montrose hastened to address himself to + individuals, The most important Chiefs had already been long personally + known to him, but even to those of inferior consequence he now introduced + himself and by the acquaintance he displayed with their peculiar + designations, and the circumstances and history of their clans, he showed + how long he must have studied the character of the mountaineers, and + prepared himself for such a situation as he now held. + </p> + <p> + While he was engaged in these acts of courtesy, his graceful manner, + expressive features, and dignity of deportment, made a singular contrast + with the coarseness and meanness of his dress. Montrose possessed that + sort of form and face, in which the beholder, at the first glance, sees + nothing extraordinary, but of which the interest becomes more impressive + the longer we gaze upon them. His stature was very little above the middle + size, but in person he was uncommonly well-built, and capable both of + exerting great force, and enduring much fatigue. In fact, he enjoyed a + constitution of iron, without which he could not have sustained the trials + of his extraordinary campaigns, through all of which he subjected himself + to the hardships of the meanest soldier. He was perfect in all exercises, + whether peaceful or martial, and possessed, of course, that graceful ease + of deportment proper to those to whom habit has rendered all postures + easy. + </p> + <p> + His long brown hair, according to the custom of men of quality among the + Royalists, was parted on the top of his head, and trained to hang down on + each side in curled locks, one of which, descending two or three inches + lower than the others, intimated Montrose’s compliance with that fashion + against which it pleased Mr. Prynne, the puritan, to write a treatise, + entitled, THE UNLOVELINESS OF LOVE-LOCKS. The features which these tresses + enclosed, were of that kind which derive their interest from the character + of the man, rather than from the regularity of their form. But a high + nose, a full, decided, well-opened, quick grey eye, and a sanguine + complexion, made amends for some coarseness and irregularity in the + subordinate parts of the face; so that, altogether, Montrose might be + termed rather a handsome, than a hard-featured man. But those who saw him + when his soul looked through those eyes with all the energy and fire of + genius—those who heard him speak with the authority of talent, and + the eloquence of nature, were impressed with an opinion even of his + external form, more enthusiastically favourable than the portraits which + still survive would entitle us to ascribe to it. Such, at least, was the + impression he made upon the assembled Chiefs of the mountaineers, over + whom, as upon all persons in their state of society, personal appearance + has no small influence. + </p> + <p> + In the discussions which followed his discovering himself, Montrose + explained the various risks which he had run in his present undertaking. + His first attempt had been to assemble a body of loyalists in the north of + England, who, in obedience to the orders of the Marquis of Newcastle, he + expected would have marched into Scotland; but the disinclination of the + English to cross the Border, and the delay of the Earl of Antrim, who was + to have landed in the Solway Frith with his Irish army, prevented his + executing this design. Other plans having in like manner failed, he stated + that he found himself under the necessity of assuming a disguise to render + his passage secure through the Lowlands, in which he had been kindly + assisted by his kinsman of Menteith. By what means Allan M’Aulay had come + to know him, he could not pretend to explain. Those who knew Allan’s + prophetic pretensions, smiled mysteriously; but he himself only replied, + that “the Earl of Montrose need not be surprised if he was known to + thousands, of whom he himself could retain no memory.” + </p> + <p> + “By the honour of a cavalier,” said Captain Dalgetty, finding at length an + opportunity to thrust in his word, “I am proud and happy in having an + opportunity of drawing a sword under your lordship’s command; and I do + forgive all grudge, malecontent, and malice of my heart, to Mr. Allan + M’Aulay, for having thrust me down to the lowest seat of the board + yestreen. Certes, he hath this day spoken so like a man having full + command of his senses, that I had resolved in my secret purpose that he + was no way entitled to claim the privilege of insanity. But since I was + only postponed to a noble earl, my future commander-in-chief, I do, before + you all, recognise the justice of the preference, and heartily salute + Allan as one who is to be his BON-CAMARADO.” + </p> + <p> + Having made this speech, which was little understood or attended to, + without putting off his military glove, he seized on Allan’s hand, and + began to shake it with violence, which Allan, with a gripe like a smith’s + vice, returned with such force, as to drive the iron splents of the + gauntlet into the hand of the wearer. + </p> + <p> + Captain Dalgetty might have construed this into a new affront, had not his + attention, as he stood blowing and shaking the injured member, been + suddenly called by Montrose himself. + </p> + <p> + “Hear this news,” he said, “Captain Dalgetty—I should say Major + Dalgetty,—the Irish, who are to profit by your military experience, + are now within a few leagues of us.” + </p> + <p> + “Our deer-stalkers,” said Angus M’Aulay, “who were abroad to bring in + venison for this honourable party, have heard of a band of strangers, + speaking neither Saxon nor pure Gaelic, and with difficulty making + themselves understood by the people of the country, who are marching this + way in arms, under the leading, it is said, of Alaster M’Donald, who is + commonly called Young Colkitto.” + </p> + <p> + “These must be our men,” said Montrose; “we must hasten to send messengers + forward, both to act as guides and to relieve their wants.” + </p> + <p> + “The last,” said Angus M’Aulay, “will be no easy matter; for I am + informed, that, excepting muskets and a very little ammunition, they want + everything that soldiers should have; and they are particularly deficient + in money, in shoes, and in raiment.” + </p> + <p> + “There is at least no use in saying so,” said Montrose, “in so loud a + tone. The puritan weavers of Glasgow shall provide them plenty of + broad-cloth, when we make a descent from the Highlands; and if the + ministers could formerly preach the old women of the Scottish boroughs out + of their webs of napery, to make tents to the fellows on Dunse Law, [The + Covenanters encamped on Dunse Law, during the troubles of 1639.] I will + try whether I have not a little interest both to make these godly dames + renew their patriotic gift, and the prick-eared knaves, their husbands, + open their purses.” + </p> + <p> + “And respecting arms,” said Captain Dalgetty, “if your lordship will + permit an old cavalier to speak his mind, so that the one-third have + muskets, my darling weapon would be the pike for the remainder, whether + for resisting a charge of horse, or for breaking the infantry. A common + smith will make a hundred pike-heads in a day; here is plenty of wood for + shafts; and I will uphold, that, according to the best usages of war, a + strong battalion of pikes, drawn up in the fashion of the Lion of the + North, the immortal Gustavus, would beat the Macedonian phalanx, of which + I used to read in the Mareschal-College, when I studied in the ancient + town of Bon-accord; and further, I will venture to predicate—” + </p> + <p> + The Captain’s lecture upon tactics was here suddenly interrupted by Allan + M’Aulay, who said, hastily,—“Room for an unexpected and unwelcome + guest!” + </p> + <p> + At the same moment, the door of the hall opened, and a grey-haired man, of + a very stately appearance, presented himself to the assembly. There was + much dignity, and even authority, in his manner. His stature was above the + common size, and his looks such as were used to command. He cast a severe, + and almost stern glance upon the assembly of Chiefs. Those of the higher + rank among them returned it with scornful indifference; but some of the + western gentlemen of inferior power, looked as if they wished themselves + elsewhere. + </p> + <p> + “To which of this assembly,” said the stranger, “am I to address myself as + leader? or have you not fixed upon the person who is to hold an office at + least as perilous as it is honourable?” + </p> + <p> + “Address yourself to me, Sir Duncan Campbell,” said Montrose, stepping + forward. + </p> + <p> + “To you!” said Sir Duncan Campbell, with some scorn. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,—to me,” repeated Montrose,—“to the Earl of Montrose, if + you have forgot him.” + </p> + <p> + “I should now, at least,” said Sir Duncan Campbell, “have had some + difficulty in recognising him in the disguise of a groom.—and yet I + might have guessed that no evil influence inferior to your lordship’s, + distinguished as one who troubles Israel, could have collected together + this rash assembly of misguided persons.” + </p> + <p> + “I will answer unto you,” said Montrose, “in the manner of your own + Puritans. I have not troubled Israel, but thou and thy father’s house. But + let us leave an altercation, which is of little consequence but to + ourselves, and hear the tidings you have brought from your Chief of + Argyle; for I must conclude that it is in his name that you have come to + this meeting.” + </p> + <p> + “It is in the name of the Marquis of Argyle,” said Sir Duncan Campbell,—“in + the name of the Scottish Convention of Estates, that I demand to know the + meaning of this singular convocation. If it is designed to disturb the + peace of the country, it were but acting like neighbours, and men of + honour, to give us some intimation to stand upon our guard.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a singular, and new state of affairs in Scotland,” said Montrose, + turning from Sir Duncan Campbell to the assembly, “when Scottish men of + rank and family cannot meet in the house of a common friend without an + inquisitorial visit and demand, on the part of our rulers, to know the + subject of our conference. Methinks our ancestors were accustomed to hold + Highland huntings, or other purposes of meeting, without asking the leave + either of the great M’Callum More himself, or any of his emissaries or + dependents.” + </p> + <p> + “The times have been such in Scotland,” answered one of the Western + Chiefs, “and such they will again be, when the intruders on our ancient + possessions are again reduced to be Lairds of Lochow instead of + overspreading us like a band of devouring locusts.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I to understand, then,” said Sir Duncan, “that it is against my name + alone that these preparations are directed? or are the race of Diarmid + only to be sufferers in common with the whole of the peaceful and orderly + inhabitants of Scotland?” + </p> + <p> + “I would ask,” said a wild-looking Chief, starting hastily up, “one + question of the Knight of Ardenvohr, ere he proceeds farther in his daring + catechism.—Has he brought more than one life to this castle, that he + ventures to intrude among us for the purposes of insult?” + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” said Montrose, “let me implore your patience; a messenger who + comes among us for the purpose of embassy, is entitled to freedom of + speech and safe-conduct. And since Sir Duncan Campbell is so pressing, I + care not if I inform him, for his guidance, that he is in an assembly of + the King’s loyal subjects, convoked by me, in his Majesty’s name and + authority, and as empowered by his Majesty’s royal commission.” + </p> + <p> + “We are to have, then, I presume,” said Sir Duncan Campbell, “a civil war + in all its forms? I have been too long a soldier to view its approach with + anxiety; but it would have been for my Lord of Montrose’s honour, if, in + this matter, he had consulted his own ambition less, and the peace of the + country more.” + </p> + <p> + “Those consulted their own ambition and self-interest, Sir Duncan,” + answered Montrose, “who brought the country to the pass in which it now + stands, and rendered necessary the sharp remedies which we are now + reluctantly about to use.” + </p> + <p> + “And what rank among these self-seekers,” said Sir Duncan Campbell, “we + shall assign to a noble Earl, so violently attached to the Covenant, that + he was the first, in 1639, to cross the Tyne, wading middle deep at the + head of his regiment, to charge the royal forces? It was the same, I + think, who imposed the Covenant upon the burgesses and colleges of + Aberdeen, at the point of sword and pike.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand your sneer, Sir Duncan,” said Montrose, temperately; “and I + can only add, that if sincere repentance can make amends for youthful + error, and for yielding to the artful representation of ambitious + hypocrites, I shall be pardoned for the crimes with which you taunt me. I + will at least endeavour to deserve forgiveness, for I am here, with my + sword in my hand, willing to spend the best blood of my body to make + amends for my error; and mortal man can do no more.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, my lord,” said Sir Duncan, “I shall be sorry to carry back this + language to the Marquis of Argyle. I had it in farther charge from the + Marquis, that, to prevent the bloody feuds which must necessarily follow a + Highland war, his lordship will be contented if terms of truce could be + arranged to the north of the Highland line, as there is ground enough in + Scotland to fight upon, without neighbours destroying each other’s + families and inheritances.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a peaceful proposal,” said Montrose, smiling, “such as it should + be, coming from one whose personal actions have always been more peaceful + than his measures. Yet, if the terms of such a truce could be equally + fixed, and if we can obtain security, for that, Sir Duncan, is + indispensable,—that your Marquis will observe these terms with + strict fidelity, I, for my part, should be content to leave peace behind + us, since we must needs carry war before us. But, Sir Duncan, you are too + old and experienced a soldier for us to permit you to remain in our + leaguer, and witness our proceedings; we shall therefore, when you have + refreshed yourself, recommend your speedy return to Inverary, and we shall + send with you a gentleman on our part to adjust the terms of the Highland + armistice, in case the Marquis shall be found serious in proposing such a + measure.” Sir Duncan Campbell assented by a bow. + </p> + <p> + “My Lord of Menteith,” continued Montrose, “will you have the goodness to + attend Sir Duncan Campbell of Ardenvohr, while we determine who shall + return with him to his Chief? M’Aulay will permit us to request that he be + entertained with suitable hospitality.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give orders for that,” said Allan M’Aulay, rising and coming + forward. “I love Sir Duncan Campbell; we have been joint sufferers in + former days, and I do not forget it now.” + </p> + <p> + “My Lord of Menteith,” said Sir Duncan Campbell, “I am grieved to see you, + at your early age, engaged in such desperate and rebellious courses.” + </p> + <p> + “I am young,” answered Menteith, “yet old enough to distinguish between + right and wrong, between loyalty and rebellion; and the sooner a good + course is begun, the longer and the better have I a chance of running it.” + </p> + <p> + “And you too, my friend, Allan M’Aulay,” said Sir Duncan, taking his hand, + “must we also call each other enemies, that have been so often allied + against a common foe?” Then turning round to the meeting, he said, + “Farewell, gentlemen; there are so many of you to whom I wish well, that + your rejection of all terms of mediation gives me deep affliction. May + Heaven,” he said, looking upwards, “judge between our motives, and those + of the movers of this civil commotion!” + </p> + <p> + “Amen,” said Montrose; “to that tribunal we all submit us.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Duncan Campbell left the hall, accompanied by Allan M’Aulay and Lord + Menteith. “There goes a true-bred Campbell,” said Montrose, as the envoy + departed, “for they are ever fair and false.” + </p> + <p> + “Pardon me, my lord,” said Evan Dhu; “hereditary enemy as I am to their + name, I have ever found the Knight of Ardenvohr brave in war, honest in + peace, and true in council.” + </p> + <p> + “Of his own disposition,” said Montrose, “such he is undoubtedly; but he + now acts as the organ or mouth-piece of his Chief, the Marquis, the + falsest man that ever drew breath. And, M’Aulay,” he continued in a + whisper to his host, “lest he should make some impression upon the + inexperience of Menteith, or the singular disposition of your brother, you + had better send music into their chamber, to prevent his inveigling them + into any private conference.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil a musician have I,” answered M’Aulay, “excepting the piper, who + has nearly broke his wind by an ambitious contention for superiority with + three of his own craft; but I can send Annot Lyle and her harp.” And he + left the apartment to give orders accordingly. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile a warm discussion took place, who should undertake the perilous + task of returning with Sir Duncan to Inverary. To the higher dignitaries, + accustomed to consider themselves upon an equality even with M’Callum + More, this was an office not to be proposed; unto others who could not + plead the same excuse, it was altogether unacceptable. One would have + thought Inverary had been the Valley of the Shadow of Death, the inferior + chiefs showed such reluctance to approach it. After a considerable + hesitation, the plain reason was at length spoken out, namely, that + whatever Highlander should undertake an office so distasteful to M’Callum + More, he would be sure to treasure the offence in his remembrance, and one + day or other to make him bitterly repent of it. + </p> + <p> + In this dilemma, Montrose, who considered the proposed armistice as a mere + stratagem on the part of Argyle, although he had not ventured bluntly to + reject it in presence of those whom it concerned so nearly, resolved to + impose the danger and dignity upon Captain Dalgetty, who had neither clan + nor estate in the Highlands upon which the wrath of Argyle could wreak + itself. + </p> + <p> + “But I have a neck though,” said Dalgetty, bluntly; “and what if he + chooses to avenge himself upon that? I have known a case where an + honourable ambassador has been hanged as a spy before now. Neither did the + Romans use ambassadors much more mercifully at the siege of Capua, + although I read that they only cut off their hands and noses, put out + their eyes, and suffered them to depart in peace.” + </p> + <p> + “By my honour Captain Dalgetty,” said Montrose, “should the Marquis, + contrary to the rules of war, dare to practise any atrocity against you, + you may depend upon my taking such signal vengeance that all Scotland + shall ring of it.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do but little for Dalgetty,” returned the Captain; “but + corragio! as the Spaniard says. With the Land of Promise full in view, the + Moor of Drumthwacket, MEA PAUPERA REGNA, as we said at Mareschal-College, + I will not refuse your Excellency’s commission, being conscious it becomes + a cavalier of honour to obey his commander’s orders, in defiance both of + gibbet and sword.” + </p> + <p> + “Gallantly resolved,” said Montrose; “and if you will come apart with me, + I will furnish you with the conditions to be laid before M’Callum More, + upon which we are willing to grant him a truce for his Highland + dominions.” + </p> + <p> + With these we need not trouble our readers. They were of an evasive + nature, calculated to meet a proposal which Montrose considered to have + been made only for the purpose of gaining time. When he had put Captain + Dalgetty in complete possession of his instructions, and when that worthy, + making his military obeisance, was near the door of his apartment, + Montrose made him a sign to return. + </p> + <p> + “I presume,” said he, “I need not remind an officer who has served under + the great Gustavus, that a little more is required of a person sent with a + flag of truce than mere discharge of his instructions, and that his + general will expect from him, on his return, some account of the state of + the enemy’s affairs, as far as they come under his observation. In short, + Captain Dalgetty, you must be UN PEU CLAIR-VOYANT.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah ha! your Excellency,” said the Captain, twisting his hard features + into an inimitable expression of cunning and intelligence, “if they do not + put my head in a poke, which I have known practised upon honourable + soldados who have been suspected to come upon such errands as the present, + your Excellency may rely on a preceese narration of whatever Dugald + Dalgetty shall hear or see, were it even how many turns of tune there are + in M’Callum More’s pibroch, or how many checks in the sett of his plaid + and trews.” + </p> + <p> + “Enough,” answered Montrose; “farewell, Captain Dalgetty: and as they say + that a lady’s mind is always expressed in her postscript, so I would have + you think that the most important part of your commission lies in what I + have last said to you.” + </p> + <p> + Dalgetty once more grinned intelligence, and withdrew to victual his + charger and himself, for the fatigues of his approaching mission. + </p> + <p> + At the door of the stable, for Gustavus always claimed his first care,—he + met Angus M’Aulay and Sir Miles Musgrave, who had been looking at his + horse; and, after praising his points and carriage, both united in + strongly dissuading the Captain from taking an animal of such value with + him upon his present very fatiguing journey. + </p> + <p> + Angus painted in the most alarming colours the roads, or rather wild + tracks, by which it would be necessary for him to travel into Argyleshire, + and the wretched huts or bothies where he would be condemned to pass the + night, and where no forage could be procured for his horse, unless he + could eat the stumps of old heather. In short, he pronounced it absolutely + impossible, that, after undertaking such a pilgrimage, the animal could be + in any case for military service. The Englishman strongly confirmed all + that Angus had said, and gave himself, body and soul, to the devil, if he + thought it was not an act little short of absolute murder to carry a horse + worth a farthing into such a waste and inhospitable desert. Captain + Dalgetty for an instant looked steadily, first at one of the gentlemen and + next at the other, and then asked them, as if in a state of indecision, + what they would advise him to do with Gustavus under such circumstances. + </p> + <p> + “By the hand of my father, my dear friend,” answered M’Aulay, “if you + leave the beast in my keeping, you may rely on his being fed and sorted + according to his worth and quality, and that upon your happy return, you + will find him as sleek as an onion boiled in butter.” + </p> + <p> + “Or,” said Sir Miles Musgrave, “if this worthy cavalier chooses to part + with his charger for a reasonable sum, I have some part of the silver + candlesticks still dancing the heys in my purse, which I shall be very + willing to transfer to his.” + </p> + <p> + “In brief, mine honourable friends,” said Captain Dalgetty, again eyeing + them both with an air of comic penetration, “I find it would not be + altogether unacceptable to either of you, to have some token to remember + the old soldier by, in case it shall please M’Callum More to hang him up + at the gate of his own castle. And doubtless it would be no small + satisfaction to me, in such an event, that a noble and loyal cavalier like + Sir Miles Musgrave, or a worthy and hospitable chieftain like our + excellent landlord, should act as my executor.” + </p> + <p> + Both hastened to protest that they had no such object, and insisted again + upon the impassable character of the Highland paths. Angus M’Aulay mumbled + over a number of hard Gaellic names, descriptive of the difficult passes, + precipices, corries, and beals, through which he said the road lay to + Inverary, when old Donald, who had now entered, sanctioned his master’s + account of these difficulties, by holding up his hands, and elevating his + eyes, and shaking his head, at every gruttural which M’Aulay pronounced. + But all this did not move the inflexible Captain. + </p> + <p> + “My worthy friends,” said he, “Gustavus is not new to the dangers of + travelling, and the mountains of Bohemia; and (no disparagement to the + beals and corries Mr. Angus is pleased to mention, and of which Sir Miles, + who never saw them, confirms the horrors,) these mountains may compete + with the vilest roads in Europe. In fact, my horse hath a most excellent + and social quality; for although he cannot pledge in my cup, yet we share + our loaf between us, and it will be hard if he suffers famine where cakes + or bannocks are to be found. And, to cut this matter short, I beseech you, + my good friends, to observe the state of Sir Duncan Campbell’s palfrey, + which stands in that stall before us, fat and fair; and, in return for + your anxiety an my account, I give you my honest asseveration, that while + we travel the same road, both that palfrey and his rider shall lack for + food before either Gustavus or I.” + </p> + <p> + Having said this he filled a large measure with corn, and walked up with + it to his charger, who, by his low whinnying neigh, his pricked ears, and + his pawing, showed how close the alliance was betwixt him and his rider. + Nor did he taste his corn until he had returned his master’s caresses, by + licking his hands and face. After this interchange of greeting, the steed + began to his provender with an eager dispatch, which showed old military + habits; and the master, after looking on the animal with great complacency + for about five minutes, said,—“Much good may it do your honest + heart, Gustavus;—now must I go and lay in provant myself for the + campaign.” + </p> + <p> + He then departed, having first saluted the Englishman and Angus M’Aulay, + who remained looking at each other for some time in silence, and then + burst out into a fit of laughter. + </p> + <p> + “That fellow,” said Sir Miles Musgrave, “is formed to go through the + world.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall think so too,” said M’Aulay, “if he can slip through M’Callum + More’s fingers as easily as he has done through ours.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think,” said the Englishman, “that the Marquis will not respect, + in Captain Dalgetty’s person, the laws of civilized war?” + </p> + <p> + “No more than I would respect a Lowland proclamation,” said Angus M’Aulay.—“But + come along, it is time I were returning to my guests.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + . . . . In a rebellion, + When what’s not meet, but what must be, was law, + Then were they chosen, in a better hour, + Let what is meet be said it must be meet, + And throw their power i’ the dust.—CORIOLANUS. +In a small apartment, remote from the rest of the guests assembled at +the castle, Sir Duncan Campbell was presented with every species of +refreshment, and respectfully attended by Lord Menteith, and by Allan +M’Aulay. His discourse with the latter turned upon a sort of hunting +campaign, in which they had been engaged together against the Children +of the Mist, with whom the Knight of Ardenvohr, as well as the M’Aulays, +had a deadly and irreconcilable feud. Sir Duncan, however, speedily +endeavoured to lead back the conversation to the subject of his present +errand to the castle of Darnlinvarach. +</pre> + <p> + “It grieved him to the very heart,” he said, “to see that friends and + neighbours, who should stand shoulder to shoulder, were likely to be + engaged hand to hand in a cause which so little concerned them. What + signifies it,” he said, “to the Highland Chiefs, whether King or + Parliament got uppermost? Were it not better to let them settle their own + differences without interference, while the Chiefs, in the meantime, took + the opportunity of establishing their own authority in a manner not to be + called in question hereafter by either King or Parliament?” He reminded + Allan M’Aulay that the measures taken in the last reign to settle the + peace, as was alleged, of the Highlands, were in fact levelled at the + patriarchal power of the Chieftains; and he mentioned the celebrated + settlement of the Fife Undertakers, as they were called, in the Lewis, as + part of a deliberate plan, formed to introduce strangers among the Celtic + tribes, to destroy by degrees their ancient customs and mode of + government, and to despoil them of the inheritance of their fathers. [In + the reign of James VI., an attempt of rather an extraordinary kind was + made to civilize the extreme northern part of the Hebridean Archipelago. + That monarch granted the property of the Island of Lewis, as if it had + been an unknown and savage country, to a number of Lowland gentlemen, + called undertakers, chiefly natives of the shire of Fife, that they might + colonize and settle there. The enterprise was at first successful, but the + natives of the island, MacLeods and MacKenzies, rose on the Lowland + adventurers, and put most of them to the sword.] “And yet,” he continued, + addressing Allan, “it is for the purpose of giving despotic authority to + the monarch by whom these designs have been nursed, that so many Highland + Chiefs are upon the point of quarrelling with, and drawing the sword + against, their neighbours, allies, and ancient confederates.” “It is to my + brother,” said Allan, “it is to the eldest son of my father’s house, that + the Knight of Ardenvohr must address these remonstrances. I am, indeed, + the brother of Angus; but in being so, I am only the first of his + clansmen, and bound to show an example to the others by my cheerful and + ready obedience to his commands.” + </p> + <p> + “The cause also,” said Lord Menteith, interposing, “is far more general + than Sir Duncan Campbell seems to suppose it. It is neither limited to + Saxon nor to Gael, to mountain nor to strath, to Highlands nor to + Lowlands. The question is, if we will continue to be governed by the + unlimited authority assumed by a set of persons in no respect superior to + ourselves, instead of returning to the natural government of the Prince + against whom they have rebelled. And respecting the interest of the + Highlands in particular,” he added, “I crave Sir Duncan Campbell’s pardon + for my plainness; but it seems very clear to me, that the only effect + produced by the present usurpation, will be the aggrandisement of one + overgrown clan at the expense of every independent Chief in the + Highlands.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not reply to you, my lord,” said Sir Duncan Campbell, “because I + know your prejudices, and from whom they are borrowed; yet you will pardon + my saying, that being at the head of a rival branch of the House of + Graham, I have both read of and known an Earl of Menteith, who would have + disdained to have been tutored in politics, or to have been commanded in + war, by an Earl of Montrose.” + </p> + <p> + “You will find it in vain, Sir Duncan,” said Lord Menteith, haughtily, “to + set my vanity in arms against my principles. The King gave my ancestors + their title and rank; and these shall never prevent my acting, in the + royal cause, under any one who is better qualified than myself to be a + commander-in-chief. Least of all, shall any miserable jealousy prevent me + from placing my hand and sword under the guidance of the bravest, the most + loyal, the most heroic spirit among our Scottish nobility.” + </p> + <p> + “Pity,” said Sir Duncan Campbell, “that you cannot add to this panegyric + the farther epithets of the most steady, and the most consistent. But I + have no purpose of debating these points with you, my lord,” waving his + hand, as if to avoid farther discussion; “the die is cast with you; allow + me only to express my sorrow for the disastrous fate to which Angus + M’Aulay’s natural rashness, and your lordship’s influence, are dragging my + gallant friend Allan here, with his father’s clan, and many a brave man + besides.” + </p> + <p> + “The die is cast for us all, Sir Duncan,” replied Allan, looking gloomy, + and arguing on his own hypochondriac feelings; “the iron hand of destiny + branded our fate upon our forehead long ere we could form a wish, or raise + a finger in our own behalf. Were this otherwise, by what means does the + Seer ascertain the future from those shadowy presages which haunt his + waking and his sleeping eye? Nought can be foreseen but that which is + certain to happen.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Duncan Campbell was about to reply, and the darkest and most contested + point of metaphysics might have been brought into discussion betwixt two + Highland disputants, when the door opened, and Annot Lyle, with her + clairshach in her hand, entered the apartment. The freedom of a Highland + maiden was in her step and in her eye; for, bred up in the closest + intimacy with the Laird of M’Aulay and his brother, with Lord Menteith, + and other young men who frequented Darnlinvarach, she possessed none of + that timidity which a female, educated chiefly among her own sex, would + either have felt, or thought necessary to assume, on an occasion like the + present. + </p> + <p> + Her dress partook of the antique, for new fashions seldom penetrated into + the Highlands, nor would they easily have found their way to a castle + inhabited chiefly by men, whose sole occupation was war and the chase. Yet + Annot’s garments were not only becoming, but even rich. Her open jacket, + with a high collar, was composed of blue cloth, richly embroidered, and + had silver clasps to fasten, when it pleased the wearer. Its sleeves, + which were wide, came no lower than the elbow, and terminated in a golden + fringe; under this upper coat, if it can be so termed, she wore an under + dress of blue satin, also richly embroidered, but which was several shades + lighter in colour than the upper garment. The petticoat was formed of + tartan silk, in the sett, or pattern, of which the colour of blue greatly + predominated, so as to remove the tawdry effect too frequently produced in + tartan, by the mixture and strong opposition of colours. An antique silver + chain hung round her neck, and supported the WREST, or key, with which she + turned her instrument. A small ruff rose above her collar, and was secured + by a brooch of some value, an old keepsake from Lord Menteith. Her + profusion of light hair almost hid her laughing eyes, while, with a smile + and a blush, she mentioned that she had M’Aulay’s directions to ask them + if they chose music. Sir Duncan Campbell gazed with considerable surprise + and interest at the lovely apparition, which thus interrupted his debate + with Allan M’Aulay. + </p> + <p> + “Can this,” he said to him in a whisper, “a creature so beautiful and so + elegant, be a domestic musician of your brother’s establishment?” + </p> + <p> + “By no means,” answered Allan, hastily, yet with some hesitation; “she is + a—a—near relation of our family—and treated,” he added, + more firmly, “as an adopted daughter of our father’s house.” + </p> + <p> + As he spoke thus, he arose from his seat, and with that air of courtesy + which every Highlander can assume when it suits him to practise it, he + resigned it to Annot, and offered to her, at the same time, whatever + refreshments the table afforded, with an assiduity which was probably + designed to give Sir Duncan an impression of her rank and consequence. If + such was Allan’s purpose, however, it was unnecessary. Sir Duncan kept his + eyes fixed upon Annot with an expression of much deeper interest than + could have arisen from any impression that she was a person of + consequence. Annot even felt embarrassed under the old knight’s steady + gaze; and it was not without considerable hesitation, that, tuning her + instrument, and receiving an assenting look from Lord Menteith and Allan, + she executed the following ballad, which our friend, Mr. Secundus + M’Pherson, whose goodness we had before to acknowledge, has thus + translated into the English tongue: + </p> + <p> + THE ORPHAN MAID. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + November’s hail-cloud drifts away, + November’s sunbeam wan + Looks coldly on the castle grey, + When forth comes Lady Anne. + + The orphan by the oak was set, + Her arms, her feet, were bare, + The hail-drops had not melted yet, + Amid her raven hair. + + “And, Dame,” she said, “by all the ties + That child and mother know, + Aid one who never knew these joys, + Relieve an orphan’s woe.” + + The Lady said, “An orphan’s state + Is hard and sad to bear; + Yet worse the widow’d mother’s fate, + Who mourns both lord and heir. + + “Twelve times the rolling year has sped, + Since, when from vengeance wild + Of fierce Strathallan’s Chief I fled, + Forth’s eddies whelm’d my child.” + + “Twelve times the year its course has born,” + The wandering maid replied, + “Since fishers on St. Bridget’s morn + Drew nets on Campsie side. + + “St. Bridget sent no scaly spoil;— + An infant, wellnigh dead, + They saved, and rear’d in want and toil, + To beg from you her bread.” + + That orphan maid the lady kiss’d— + “My husband’s looks you bear; + St. Bridget and her morn be bless’d! + You are his widow’s heir.” + + They’ve robed that maid, so poor and pale, + In silk and sandals rare; + And pearls, for drops of frozen hail, + Are glistening in her hair. +</pre> + <p> + The admirers of pure Celtic antiquity, notwithstanding the elegance of the + above translation, may be desirous to see a literal version from the + original Gaelic, which we therefore subjoin; and have only to add, that + the original is deposited with Mr. Jedediah Cleishbotham. + </p> + <p> + LITERAL TRANSLATION. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The hail-blast had drifted away upon the wings of the gale + of autumn. The sun looked from between the clouds, pale as + the wounded hero who rears his head feebly on the heath when + the roar of battle hath passed over him. + + Finele, the Lady of the Castle, came forth to see her + maidens pass to the herds with their leglins [Milk-pails]. + + There sat an orphan maiden beneath the old oak-tree of + appointment. The withered leaves fell around her, and her + heart was more withered than they. + + The parent of the ice [poetically taken from the frost] + still congealed the hail-drops in her hair; they were like + the specks of white ashes on the twisted boughs of the + blackened and half-consumed oak that blazes in the hall. + + And the maiden said, “Give me comfort, Lady, I am an orphan + child.” And the Lady replied, “How can I give that which I + have not? I am the widow of a slain lord,—the mother of a + perished child. When I fled in my fear from the vengeance + of my husband’s foes, our bark was overwhelmed in the tide, + and my infant perished. This was on St. Bridget’s morn, + near the strong Lyns of Campsie. May ill luck light upon + the day.” And the maiden answered, “It was on St. Bridget’s + morn, and twelve harvests before this time, that the + fishermen of Campsie drew in their nets neither grilse nor + salmon, but an infant half dead, who hath since lived in + misery, and must die, unless she is now aided.” And the Lady + answered, “Blessed be Saint Bridget and her morn, for these + are the dark eyes and the falcon look of my slain lord; and + thine shall be the inheritance of his widow.” And she + called for her waiting attendants, and she bade them clothe + that maiden in silk, and in samite; and the pearls which + they wove among her black tresses, were whiter than the + frozen hail-drops. +</pre> + <p> + While the song proceeded, Lord Menteith observed, with some surprise, that + it appeared to produce a much deeper effect upon the mind of Sir Duncan + Campbell, than he could possibly have anticipated from his age and + character. He well knew that the Highlanders of that period possessed a + much greater sensibility both for tale and song than was found among their + Lowland neighbours; but even this, he thought, hardly accounted for the + embarrassment with which the old man withdrew his eyes from the + songstress, as if unwilling to suffer them to rest on an object so + interesting. Still less was it to be expected, that features which + expressed pride, stern common sense, and the austere habit of authority, + should have been so much agitated by so trivial a circumstance. As the + Chief’s brow became clouded, he drooped his large shaggy grey eyebrows + until they almost concealed his eyes, on the lids of which something like + a tear might be seen to glisten. He remained silent and fixed in the same + posture for a minute or two, after the last note had ceased to vibrate. He + then raised his head, and having looked at Annot Lyle, as if purposing to + speak to her, he as suddenly changed that purpose, and was about to + address Allan, when the door opened, and the Lord of the Castle made his + appearance. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Dark on their journey lour’d the gloomy day, + Wild were the hills, and doubtful grew the way; + More dark, more gloomy, and more doubtful, show’d + The mansion, which received them from the road. + —THE TRAVELLERS, A ROMANCE. +</pre> + <p> + Angus M’Aulay was charged with a message which he seemed to find some + difficulty in communicating; for it was not till after he had framed his + speech several different ways, and blundered them all, that he succeeded + in letting Sir Duncan Campbell know, that the cavalier who was to + accompany him was waiting in readiness, and that all was prepared for his + return to Inverary. Sir Duncan Campbell rose up very indignantly; the + affront which this message implied immediately driving out of his + recollection the sensibility which had been awakened by the music. + </p> + <p> + “I little expected this,” he said, looking indignantly at Angus M’Aulay. + “I little thought that there was a Chief in the West Highlands, who, at + the pleasure of a Saxon, would have bid the Knight of Ardenvohr leave his + castle, when the sun was declining from the meridian, and ere the second + cup had been filled. But farewell, sir, the food of a churl does not + satisfy the appetite; when I next revisit Darnlinvarach, it shall be with + a naked sword in one hand, and a firebrand in the other.” + </p> + <p> + “And if you so come,” said Angus, “I pledge myself to meet you fairly, + though you brought five hundred Campbells at your back, and to afford you + and them such entertainment, that you shall not again complain of the + hospitality of Darnlinvarach.” + </p> + <p> + “Threatened men,” said Sir Duncan, “live long. Your turn for gasconading, + Laird of M’Aulay, is too well known, that men of honour should regard your + vaunts. To you, my lord, and to Allan, who have supplied the place of my + churlish host, I leave my thanks.—And to you, pretty mistress,” he + said, addressing Annot Lyle, “this little token, for having opened a + fountain which hath been dry for many a year.” So saying, he left the + apartment, and commanded his attendants to be summoned. Angus M’Aulay, + equally embarrassed and incensed at the charge of inhospitality, which was + the greatest possible affront to a Highlander, did not follow Sir Duncan + to the court-yard, where, mounting his palfrey, which was in readiness, + followed by six mounted attendants, and accompanied by the noble Captain + Dalgetty, who had also awaited him, holding Gustavus ready for action, + though he did not draw his girths and mount till Sir Duncan appeared, the + whole cavalcade left the castle. + </p> + <p> + The journey was long and toilsome, but without any of the extreme + privations which the Laird of M’Aulay had prophesied. In truth, Sir Duncan + was very cautious to avoid those nearer and more secret paths, by means of + which the county of Argyle was accessible from the eastward; for his + relation and chief, the Marquis, was used to boast, that he would not for + a hundred thousand crowns any mortal should know the passes by which an + armed force could penetrate into his country. + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img src="images/0795m.jpg" style="width:100%;" alt="0795m " /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0795.jpg" style="width:100%;" ><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + Sir Duncan Campbell, therefore, rather shunned the Highlands, and falling + into the Low-country, made for the nearest seaport in the vicinity, where + he had several half-decked galleys, or birlings, as they were called, at + his command. In one of these they embarked, with Gustavus in company, who + was so seasoned to adventure, that land and sea seemed as indifferent to + him as to his master. + </p> + <p> + The wind being favourable, they pursued their way rapidly with sails and + oars; and early the next morning it was announced to Captain Dalgetty, + then in a small cabin beneath the hall-deck, that the galley was under the + walls of Sir Duncan Campbell’s castle. + </p> + <p> + Ardenvohr, accordingly, rose high above him, when he came upon the deck of + the galley. It was a gloomy square tower, of considerable size and great + height, situated upon a headland projecting into the salt-water lake, or + arm of the sea, which they had entered on the preceding evening. A wall, + with flanking towers at each angle, surrounded the castle to landward; + but, towards the lake, it was built so near the brink of the precipice as + only to leave room for a battery of seven guns, designed to protect the + fortress from any insult from that side, although situated too high to be + of any effectual use according to the modern system of warfare. + </p> + <p> + The eastern sun, rising behind the old tower, flung its shadow far on the + lake, darkening the deck of the galley, on which Captain Dalgetty now + walked, waiting with some impatience the signal to land. Sir Duncan + Campbell, as he was informed by his attendants, was already within the + walls of the castle; but no one encouraged the Captain’s proposal of + following him ashore, until, as they stated, they should receive the + direct permission or order of the Knight of Ardenvohr. + </p> + <p> + In a short time afterwards the mandate arrived, while a boat, with a piper + in the bow, bearing the Knight of Ardenvohr’s crest in silver upon his + left arm, and playing with all his might the family march, entitled “The + Campbells are coming,” approached to conduct the envoy of Montrose to the + castle of Ardenvohr. The distance between the galley and the beach was so + short as scarce to require the assistance of the eight sturdy rowers, in + bonnets, short coats, and trews, whose efforts sent the boat to the little + creek in which they usually landed, before one could have conceived that + it had left the side of the birling. Two of the boatmen, in spite of + Dalgetty’s resistance, horsed the Captain on the back of a third + Highlander, and, wading through the surf with him, landed him high and dry + upon the beach beneath the castle rock. In the face of this rock there + appeared something like the entrance of a low-browed cavern, towards which + the assistants were preparing to hurry our friend Dalgetty, when, shaking + himself loose from them with some difficulty, he insisted upon seeing + Gustavus safely landed before he proceeded one step farther. The + Highlanders could not comprehend what he meant, until one who had picked + up a little English, or rather Lowland Scotch, exclaimed, “Houts! it’s a’ + about her horse, ta useless baste.” Farther remonstrance on the part of + Captain Dalgetty was interrupted by the appearance of Sir Duncan Campbell + himself, from the mouth of the cavern which we have described, for the + purpose of inviting Captain Dalgetty to accept of the hospitality of + Ardenvohr, pledging his honour, at the same time, that Gustavus should be + treated as became the hero from whom he derived his name, not to mention + the important person to whom he now belonged. Notwithstanding this + satisfactory guarantee, Captain Dalgetty would still have hesitated, such + was his anxiety to witness the fate of his companion Gustavus, had not two + Highlanders seized him by the arms, two more pushed him on behind, while a + fifth exclaimed, “Hout awa wi’ the daft Sassenach! does she no hear the + Laird bidding her up to her ain castle, wi’ her special voice, and isna + that very mickle honour for the like o’ her?” + </p> + <p> + Thus impelled, Captain Dalgetty could only for a short space keep a + reverted eye towards the galley in which he had left the partner of his + military toils. In a few minutes afterwards he found himself involved in + the total darkness of a staircase, which, entering from the low-browed + cavern we have mentioned, winded upwards through the entrails of the + living rock. + </p> + <p> + “The cursed Highland salvages!” muttered the Captain, half aloud; “what is + to become of me, if Gustavus, the namesake of the invincible Lion of the + Protestant League, should be lamed among their untenty hands!” + </p> + <p> + “Have no fear of that,” said the voice of Sir Duncan, who was nearer to + him than he imagined; “my men are accustomed to handle horses, both in + embarking and dressing them, and you will soon see Gustavus as safe as + when you last dismounted from his back.” + </p> + <p> + Captain Dalgetty knew the world too well to offer any farther + remonstrance, whatever uneasiness he might suppress within his own bosom. + A step or two higher up the stair showed light and a door, and an + iron-grated wicket led him out upon a gallery cut in the open face of the + rock, extending a space of about six or eight yards, until he reached a + second door, where the path re-entered the rock, and which was also + defended by an iron portcullis. “An admirable traverse,” observed the + Captain; “and if commanded by a field-piece, or even a few muskets, quite + sufficient to ensure the place against a storming party.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Duncan Campbell made no answer at the time; but, the moment + afterwards, when they had entered the second cavern, he struck with the + stick which he had in his hand, first on the one side, and then on the + other of the wicket, and the sullen ringing sound which replied to the + blows, made Captain Dalgetty sensible that there was a gun placed on each + side, for the purpose of raking the gallery through which they had passed, + although the embrasures, through which they might be fired on occasion, + were masked on the outside with sods and loose stones. Having ascended the + second staircase, they found themselves again on an open platform and + gallery, exposed to a fire both of musketry and wall-guns, if, being come + with hostile intent, they had ventured farther. A third flight of steps, + cut in the rock like the former, but not caverned over, led them finally + into the battery at the foot of the tower. This last stair also was narrow + and steep, and, not to mention the fire which might be directed on it from + above, one or two resolute men, with pikes and battle-axes, could have + made the pass good against hundreds; for the staircase would not admit two + persons abreast, and was not secured by any sort of balustrade, or + railing, from the sheer and abrupt precipice, on the foot of which the + tide now rolled with a voice of thunder. So that, under the jealous + precautions used to secure this ancient Celtic fortress, a person of weak + nerves, and a brain liable to become dizzy, might have found it something + difficult to have achieved the entrance to the castle, even supposing no + resistance had been offered. + </p> + <p> + Captain Dalgetty, too old a soldier to feel such tremors, had no sooner + arrived in the court-yard, than he protested to God, the defences of Sir + Duncan’s castle reminded him more of the notable fortress of Spandau, + situated in the March of Brandenburg, than of any place whilk it had been + his fortune to defend in the course of his travels. Nevertheless, he + criticised considerably the mode of placing the guns on the battery we + have noticed, observing, that “where cannon were perched, like to scarts + or sea-gulls on the top of a rock, he had ever observed that they + astonished more by their noise than they dismayed by the skaith or damage + which they occasioned.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Duncan, without replying, conducted the soldier into the tower; the + defences of which were a portcullis and ironclenched oaken door, the + thickness of the wall being the space between them. He had no sooner + arrived in a hall hung with tapestry, than the Captain prosecuted his + military criticism. It was indeed suspended by the sight of an excellent + breakfast, of which he partook with great avidity; but no sooner had he + secured this meal, than he made the tour of the apartment, examining the + ground around the Castle very carefully from each window in the room. He + then returned to his chair, and throwing himself back into it at his + length, stretched out one manly leg, and tapping his jack-boot with the + riding-rod which he carried in his hand, after the manner of a half-bred + man who affects ease in the society of his betters, he delivered his + unasked opinion as follows:—“This house of yours, now, Sir Duncan, + is a very pretty defensible sort of a tenement, and yet it is hardly such + as a cavaliero of honour would expect to maintain his credit by holding + out for many days. For, Sir Duncan, if it pleases you to notice, your + house is overcrowed, and slighted, or commanded, as we military men say, + by yonder round hillock to the landward, whereon an enemy might stell such + a battery of cannon as would make ye glad to beat a chamade within + forty-eight hours, unless it pleased the Lord extraordinarily to show + mercy.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no road,” replied Sir Duncan, somewhat shortly, “by which cannon + can be brought against Ardenvohr. The swamps and morasses around my house + would scarce carry your horse and yourself, excepting by such paths as + could be rendered impassable within a few hours.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Duncan,” said the Captain, “it is your pleasure to suppose so; and + yet we martial men say, that where there is a sea-coast there is always a + naked side, seeing that cannon and munition, where they cannot be + transported by land, may be right easily brought by sea near to the place + where they are to be put in action. Neither is a castle, however secure in + its situation, to be accounted altogether invincible, or, as they say, + impregnable; for I protest t’ye, Sir Duncan, that I have known twenty-five + men, by the mere surprise and audacity of the attack, win, at point of + pike, as strong a hold as this of Ardenvohr, and put to the sword, + captivate, or hold to the ransom, the defenders, being ten times their own + number.” + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding Sir Duncan Campbell’s knowledge of the world, and his + power of concealing his internal emotion, he appeared piqued and hurt at + these reflections, which the Captain made with the most unconscious + gravity, having merely selected the subject of conversation as one upon + which he thought himself capable of shining, and, as they say, of laying + down the law, without exactly recollecting that the topic might not be + equally agreeable to his landlord. + </p> + <p> + “To cut this matter short,” said Sir Duncan, with an expression of voice + and countenance somewhat agitated, “it is unnecessary for you to tell me, + Captain Dalgetty, that a castle may be stormed if it is not valorously + defended, or surprised if it is not heedfully watched. I trust this poor + house of mine will not be found in any of these predicaments, should even + Captain Dalgetty himself choose to beleaguer it.” + </p> + <p> + “For all that, Sir Duncan,” answered the persevering commander, “I would + premonish you, as a friend, to trace out a sconce upon that round hill, + with a good graffe, or ditch, whilk may be easily accomplished by + compelling the labour of the boors in the vicinity; it being the custom of + the valorous Gustavus Adolphus to fight as much by the spade and shovel, + as by sword, pike, and musket. Also, I would advise you to fortify the + said sconce, not only by a foussie, or graffe, but also by certain + stackets, or palisades.”—(Here Sir Duncan, becoming impatient, left + the apartment, the Captain following him to the door, and raising his + voice as he retreated, until he was fairly out of hearing.)—“The + whilk stackets, or palisades, should be artificially framed with + re-entering angles and loop-holes, or crenelles, for musketry, whereof it + shall arise that the foeman—The Highland brute! the old Highland + brute! They are as proud as peacocks, and as obstinate as tups—and + here he has missed an opportunity of making his house as pretty an + irregular fortification as an invading army ever broke their teeth upon.—But + I see,” he continued, looking own from the window upon the bottom of the + precipice, “they have got Gustavus safe ashore—Proper fellow! I + would know that toss of his head among a whole squadron. I must go to see + what they are to make of him.” + </p> + <p> + He had no sooner reached, however, the court to the seaward, and put + himself in the act of descending the staircase, than two Highland + sentinels, advancing their Lochaber axes, gave him to understand that this + was a service of danger. + </p> + <p> + “Diavolo!” said the soldier, “and I have got no pass-word. I could not + speak a syllable of their salvage gibberish, an it were to save me from + the provost-marshal.” + </p> + <p> + “I will be your surety, Captain Dalgetty,” said Sir Duncan, who had again + approached him without his observing from whence; “and we will go + together, and see how your favourite charger is accommodated.” + </p> + <p> + He conducted him accordingly down the staircase to the beach, and from + thence by a short turn behind a large rock, which concealed the stables + and other offices belonging to the castle, Captain Dalgetty became + sensible, at the same time, that the side of the castle to the land was + rendered totally inaccessible by a ravine, partly natural and partly + scarped with great care and labour, so as to be only passed by a + drawbridge. Still, however, the Captain insisted, not withstanding the + triumphant air with which Sir Duncan pointed out his defences, that a + sconce should be erected on Drumsnab, the round eminence to the east of + the castle, in respect the house might be annoyed from thence by burning + bullets full of fire, shot out of cannon, according to the curious + invention of Stephen Bathian, King of Poland, whereby that prince utterly + ruined the great Muscovite city of Moscow. This invention, Captain + Dalgetty owned, he had not yet witnessed, but observed, “that it would + give him particular delectation to witness the same put to the proof + against Ardenvohr, or any other castle of similar strength;” observing, + “that so curious an experiment could not but afford the greatest delight + to all admirers of the military art.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Duncan Campbell diverted this conversation by carrying the soldier + into his stables, and suffering him to arrange Gustavus according to his + own will and pleasure. After this duty had been carefully performed, + Captain Dalgetty proposed to return to the castle, observing, it was his + intention to spend the time betwixt this and dinner, which, he presumed, + would come upon the parade about noon, in burnishing his armour, which + having sustained some injury from the sea-air, might, he was afraid, seem + discreditable in the eyes of M’Callum More. Yet, while they were returning + to the castle, he failed not to warn Sir Duncan Campbell against the great + injury he might sustain by any sudden onfall of an enemy, whereby his + horses, cattle, and granaries, might be cut off and consumed, to his great + prejudice; wherefore he again strongly conjured him to construct a sconce + upon the round hill called Drumsnab, and offered his own friendly services + in lining out the same. To this disinterested advice Sir Duncan only + replied by ushering his guest to his apartment, and informing him that the + tolling of the castle bell would make him aware when dinner was ready. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Is this thy castle, Baldwin? Melancholy + Displays her sable banner from the donjon, + Darkening the foam of the whole surge beneath. + Were I a habitant, to see this gloom + Pollute the face of nature, and to hear + The ceaseless sound of wave, and seabird’s scream, + I’d wish me in the hut that poorest peasant + E’er framed, to give him temporary shelter.—BROWN. +</pre> + <p> + The gallant Ritt-master would willingly have employed his leisure in + studying the exterior of Sir Duncan’s castle, and verifying his own + military ideas upon the nature of its defences. But a stout sentinel, who + mounted guard with a Lochaber-axe at the door of his apartment, gave him + to understand, by very significant signs, that he was in a sort of + honourable captivity. + </p> + <p> + It is strange, thought the Ritt-master to himself, how well these salvages + understand the rules and practique of war. Who should have pre-supposed + their acquaintance with the maxim of the great and godlike Gustavus + Adolphus, that a flag of truce should be half a messenger half a spy?—And, + having finished burnishing his arms, he sate down patiently to compute how + much half a dollar per diem would amount to at the end of a six-months’ + campaign; and, when he had settled that problem, proceeded to the more + abstruse calculations necessary for drawing up a brigade of two thousand + men on the principle of extracting the square root. + </p> + <p> + From his musings, he was roused by the joyful sound of the dinner bell, on + which the Highlander, lately his guard, became his gentleman-usher, and + marshalled him to the hall, where a table with four covers bore ample + proofs of Highland hospitality. Sir Duncan entered, conducting his lady, a + tall, faded, melancholy female, dressed in deep mourning. They were + followed by a Presbyterian clergyman, in his Geneva cloak, and wearing a + black silk skull-cap, covering his short hair so closely, that it could + scarce be seen at all, so that the unrestricted ears had an undue + predominance in the general aspect. This ungraceful fashion was universal + at the time, and partly led to the nicknames of roundheads, prick-eared + curs, and so forth, which the insolence of the cavaliers liberally + bestowed on their political enemies. + </p> + <p> + Sir Duncan presented his military guest to his lady, who received his + technical salutation with a stiff and silent reverence, in which it could + scarce be judged whether pride or melancholy had the greater share. The + churchman, to whom he was next presented, eyed him with a glance of + mingled dislike and curiosity. + </p> + <p> + The Captain, well accustomed to worse looks from more dangerous persons, + cared very little either for those of the lady or of the divine, but bent + his whole soul upon assaulting a huge piece of beef, which smoked at the + nether end of the table. But the onslaught, as he would have termed it, + was delayed, until the conclusion of a very long grace, betwixt every + section of which Dalgetty handled his knife and fork, as he might have + done his musket or pike when going upon action, and as often resigned them + unwillingly when the prolix chaplain commenced another clause of his + benediction. Sir Duncan listened with decency, though he was supposed + rather to have joined the Covenanters out of devotion to his chief, than + real respect for the cause either of liberty or of Presbytery. His lady + alone attended to the blessing, with symptoms of deep acquiescence. + </p> + <p> + The meal was performed almost in Carthusian silence; for it was none of + Captain Dalgetty’s habits to employ his mouth in talking, while it could + be more profitably occupied. Sir Duncan was absolutely silent, and the + lady and churchman only occasionally exchanged a few words, spoken low, + and indistinctly. + </p> + <p> + But, when the dishes were removed, and their place supplied by liquors of + various sorts, Captain Dalgetty no longer had, himself, the same weighty + reasons for silence, and began to tire of that of the rest of the company. + He commenced a new attack upon his landlord, upon the former ground. + </p> + <p> + “Touching that round monticle, or hill, or eminence, termed Drumsnab, I + would be proud to hold some dialogue with you, Sir Duncan, on the nature + of the sconce to be there constructed; and whether the angles thereof + should be acute or obtuse—anent whilk I have heard the great + Velt-Mareschal Bannier hold a learned argument with General Tiefenbach + during a still-stand of arms.” + </p> + <p> + “Captain Dalgetty,” answered Sir Duncan very dryly, “it is not our + Highland usage to debate military points with strangers. This castle is + like to hold out against a stronger enemy than any force which the + unfortunate gentlemen we left at Darnlinvarach are able to bring against + it.” + </p> + <p> + A deep sigh from the lady accompanied the conclusion of her husband’s + speech, which seemed to remind her of some painful circumstance. + </p> + <p> + “He who gave,” said the clergyman, addressing her in a solemn tone, “hath + taken away. May you, honourable lady, be long enabled to say, Blessed be + his name!” + </p> + <p> + To this exhortation, which seemed intended for her sole behoof, the lady + answered by an inclination of her head, more humble than Captain Dalgetty + had yet observed her make. Supposing he should now find her in a more + conversible humour, he proceeded to accost her. + </p> + <p> + “It is indubitably very natural that your ladyship should be downcast at + the mention of military preparations, whilk I have observed to spread + perturbation among women of all nations, and almost all conditions. + Nevertheless, Penthesilea, in ancient times, and also Joan of Arc, and + others, were of a different kidney. And, as I have learned while I served + the Spaniard, the Duke of Alva in former times had the leaguer-lasses who + followed his camp marshalled into TERTIAS (whilk me call regiments), and + officered and commanded by those of their own feminine gender, and + regulated by a commander-in chief, called in German Hureweibler, or, as we + would say vernacularly, Captain of the Queans. True it is, they were + persons not to be named as parallel to your ladyship, being such QUAE + QUAESTUM CORPORIBUS FACIEBANT, as we said of Jean Drochiels at + Mareschal-College; the same whom the French term CURTISANNES, and we in + Scottish—” + </p> + <p> + “The lady will spare you the trouble of further exposition, Captain + Dalgetty,” said his host, somewhat sternly; to which the clergyman added, + “that such discourse better befitted a watch-tower guarded by profane + soldiery than the board of an honourable person, and the presence of a + lady of quality.” + </p> + <p> + “Craving your pardon, Dominie, or Doctor, AUT QUOCUNQUE ALIO NOMINE + GAUDES, for I would have you to know I have studied polite letters,” said + the unabashed envoy, filling a great cup of wine, “I see no ground for + your reproof, seeing I did not speak of those TURPES PERSONAE, as if their + occupation or character was a proper subject of conversation for this + lady’s presence, but simply PAR ACCIDENS, as illustrating the matter in + hand, namely, their natural courage and audacity, much enhanced, + doubtless, by the desperate circumstances of their condition.” + </p> + <p> + “Captain Dalgetty,” said Sir Duncan Campbell, “to break short this + discourse, I must acquaint you, that I have some business to dispatch + to-night, in order to enable me to ride with you to-morrow towards + Inverary; and therefore—” + </p> + <p> + “To ride with this person to-morrow!” exclaimed his lady; “such cannot be + your purpose, Sir Duncan, unless you have forgotten that the morrow is a + sad anniversary, and dedicated to as sad a solemnity.” + </p> + <p> + “I had not forgotten,” answered Sir Duncan; “how is it possible I can ever + forget? but the necessity of the times requires I should send this officer + onward to Inverary, without loss of time.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet, surely, not that you should accompany him in person?” enquired the + lady. + </p> + <p> + “It were better I did,” said Sir Duncan; “yet I can write to the Marquis, + and follow on the subsequent day.—Captain Dalgetty, I will dispatch + a letter for you, explaining to the Marquis of Argyle your character and + commission, with which you will please to prepare to travel to Inverary + early to-morrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Duncan Campbell,” said Dalgetty, “I am doubtless at your + discretionary disposal in this matter; not the less, I pray you to + remember the blot which will fall upon your own escutcheon, if you do in + any way suffer me, being a commissionate flag of truce, to be circumvented + in this matter, whether CLAM, VI, VEL PRECARIO; I do not say by your + assent to any wrong done to me, but even through absence of any due care + on your part to prevent the same.” + </p> + <p> + “You are under the safeguard of my honour, sir,” answered Sir Duncan + Campbell, “and that is more than a sufficient security. And now,” + continued he, rising, “I must set the example of retiring.” + </p> + <p> + Dalgetty saw himself under the necessity of following the hint, though the + hour was early; but, like a skilful general, he availed himself of every + instant of delay which circumstances permitted. “Trusting to your + honourable parole,” said he, filling his cup, “I drink to you, Sir Duncan, + and to the continuance of your honourable-house.” A sigh from Sir Duncan + was the only reply. “Also, madam,” said the soldier, replenishing the + quaigh with all possible dispatch, “I drink to your honourable health, and + fulfilment of all your virtuous desires—and, reverend sir” (not + forgetting to fit the action to the words), “I fill this cup to the + drowning of all unkindness betwixt you and Captain Dalgetty—I should + say Major—and, in respect the flagon contains but one cup more, I + drink to the health of all honourable cavaliers and brave soldados—and, + the flask being empty, I am ready, Sir Duncan, to attend your functionary + or sentinel to my place of private repose.” + </p> + <p> + He received a formal permission to retire, and an assurance, that as the + wine seemed to be to his taste, another measure of the same vintage should + attend him presently, in order to soothe the hours of his solitude. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had the Captain reached the apartment than this promise was + fulfilled; and, in a short time afterwards, the added comforts of a pasty + of red-deer venison rendered him very tolerant both of confinement and + want of society. The same domestic, a sort of chamberlain, who placed this + good cheer in his apartment, delivered to Dalgetty a packet, sealed and + tied up with a silken thread, according to the custom of the time, + addressed with many forms of respect to the High and Mighty Prince, + Archibald, Marquis of Argyle, Lord of Lorne, and so forth. The chamberlain + at the same time apprized the Ritt-master, that he must take horse at an + early hour for Inverary, where the packet of Sir Duncan would be at once + his introduction and his passport. Not forgetting that it was his object + to collect information as well as to act as an envoy, and desirous, for + his own sake, to ascertain Sir Duncan’s reasons for sending him onward + without his personal attendance, the Ritt-master enquired the domestic, + with all the precaution that his experience suggested, what were the + reasons which detained Sir Duncan at home on the succeeding day. The man, + who was from the Lowlands, replied, “that it was the habit of Sir Duncan + and his lady to observe as a day of solemn fast and humiliation the + anniversary on which their castle had been taken by surprise, and their + children, to the number of four, destroyed cruelly by a band of Highland + freebooters during Sir Duncan’s absence upon an expedition which the + Marquis of Argyle had undertaken against the Macleans of the Isle of + Mull.” + </p> + <p> + “Truly,” said the soldier, “your lord and lady have some cause for fast + and humiliation. Nevertheless, I will venture to pronounce, that if he had + taken the advice of any experienced soldier, having skill in the + practiques of defending places of advantage, he would have built a sconce + upon the small hill which is to the left of the draw-brigg. And this I can + easily prove to you, mine honest friend; for, holding that pasty to be the + castle—What’s your name, friend?” + </p> + <p> + “Lorimer, sir,” replied the man. + </p> + <p> + “Here is to your health, honest Lorimer.—I say, Lorimer—holding + that pasty to be the main body or citadel of the place to be defended, and + taking the marrow-bone for the sconce to be erected—” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry, sir,” said Lorimer, interrupting him, “that I cannot stay to + hear the rest of your demonstration; but the bell will presently ring. As + worthy Mr. Graneangowl, the Marquis’s own chaplain, does family worship, + and only seven of our household out of sixty persons understand the + Scottish tongue, it would misbecome any one of them to be absent, and + greatly prejudice me in the opinion of my lady. There are pipes and + tobacco, sir, if you please to drink a whiff of smoke, and if you want + anything else, it shall be forthcoming two hours hence, when prayers are + over.” So saying, he left the apartment. + </p> + <p> + No sooner was he gone, than the heavy toll of the castle-bell summoned its + inhabitants together; and was answered by the shrill clamour of the + females, mixed with the deeper tones of the men, as, talking Earse at the + top of their throats, they hurried from different quarters by a long but + narrow gallery, which served as a communication to many rooms, and, among + others, to that in which Captain Dalgetty was stationed. There they go as + if they were beating to the roll-call, thought the soldier to himself; if + they all attend the parade, I will look out, take a mouthful of fresh air, + and make mine own observations on the practicabilities of this place. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, when all was quiet, he opened his chamber door, and prepared + to leave it, when he saw his friend with the axe advancing towards him + from the distant end of the gallery, half whistling, a Gaelic tune. To + have shown any want of confidence, would have been at once impolitic, and + unbecoming his military character; so the Captain, putting the best face + upon his situation he could, whistled a Swedish retreat, in a tone still + louder than the notes of his sentinel; and retreating pace by pace, with + an air of indifference, as if his only purpose had been to breathe a + little fresh air, he shut the door in the face of his guard, when the + fellow had approached within a few paces of him. + </p> + <p> + It is very well, thought the Ritt-master to himself; he annuls my parole + by putting guards upon me, for, as we used to say at Mareschal-College, + FIDES ET FIDUCIA SUNT RELATIVA [See Note I]; and if he does not trust my + word, I do not see how I am bound to keep it, if any motive should occur + for my desiring to depart from it. Surely the moral obligation of the + parole is relaxed, in as far as physical force is substituted instead + thereof. + </p> + <p> + Thus comforting himself in the metaphysical immunities which he deduced + from the vigilance of his sentinel, Ritt-master Dalgetty retired to his + apartment, where, amid the theoretical calculations of tactics, and the + occasional more practical attacks on the flask and pasty, he consumed the + evening until it was time to go to repose. He was summoned by Lorimer at + break of day, who gave him to understand, that, when he had broken his + fast, for which he produced ample materials, his guide and horse were in + attendance for his journey to Inverary. After complying with the + hospitable hint of the chamberlain, the soldier proceeded to take horse. + In passing through the apartments, he observed that domestics were busily + employed in hanging the great hall with black cloth, a ceremony which, he + said, he had seen practised when the immortal Gustavus Adolphus lay in + state in the Castle of Wolgast, and which, therefore, he opined, was a + testimonial of the strictest and deepest mourning. + </p> + <p> + When Dalgetty mounted his steed, he found himself attended, or perhaps + guarded, by five or six Campbells, well armed, commanded by one, who, from + the target at his shoulder, and the short cock’s feather in his bonnet, as + well as from the state which he took upon himself, claimed the rank of a + Dunniewassel, or clansman of superior rank; and indeed, from his dignity + of deportment, could not stand in a more distant degree of relationship to + Sir Duncan, than that of tenth or twelfth cousin at farthest. But it was + impossible to extract positive information on this or any other subject, + inasmuch as neither this commander nor any of his party spoke English. The + Captain rode, and his military attendants walked; but such was their + activity, and so numerous the impediments which the nature of the road + presented to the equestrian mode of travelling, that far from being + retarded by the slowness of their pace, his difficulty was rather in + keeping up with his guides. He observed that they occasionally watched him + with a sharp eye, as if they were jealous of some effort to escape; and + once, as he lingered behind at crossing a brook, one of the gillies began + to blow the match of his piece, giving him to understand that he would run + some risk in case of an attempt to part company. Dalgetty did not augur + much good from the close watch thus maintained upon his person; but there + was no remedy, for an attempt to escape from his attendants in an + impervious and unknown country, would have been little short of insanity. + He therefore plodded patiently on through a waste and savage wilderness, + treading paths which were only known to the shepherds and cattle-drivers, + and passing with much more of discomfort than satisfaction many of those + sublime combinations of mountainous scenery which now draw visitors from + every corner of England, to feast their eyes upon Highland grandeur, and + mortify their palates upon Highland fare. + </p> + <p> + At length they arrived on the southern verge of that noble lake upon which + Inverary is situated; and a bugle, which the Dunniewassel winded till rock + and greenwood rang, served as a signal to a well-manned galley, which, + starting from a creek where it lay concealed, received the party on board, + including Gustavus; which sagacious quadruped, an experienced traveller + both by water and land, walked in and out of the boat with the discretion + of a Christian. + </p> + <p> + Embarked on the bosom of Loch Fine, Captain Dalgetty might have admired + one of the grandest scenes which nature affords. He might have noticed the + rival rivers Aray and Shiray, which pay tribute to the lake, each issuing + from its own dark and wooded retreat. He might have marked, on the soft + and gentle slope that ascends from the shores, the noble old Gothic + castle, with its varied outline, embattled walls, towers, and outer and + inner courts, which, so far as the picturesque is concerned, presented an + aspect much more striking than the present massive and uniform mansion. He + might have admired those dark woods which for many a mile surrounded this + strong and princely dwelling, and his eye might have dwelt on the + picturesque peak of Duniquoich, starting abruptly from the lake, and + raising its scathed brow into the mists of middle sky, while a solitary + watch-tower, perched on its top like an eagle’s nest, gave dignity to the + scene by awakening a sense of possible danger. All these, and every other + accompaniment of this noble scene, Captain Dalgetty might have marked, if + he had been so minded. But, to confess the truth, the gallant Captain, who + had eaten nothing since daybreak, was chiefly interested by the smoke + which ascended from the castle chimneys, and the expectations which this + seemed to warrant of his encountering an abundant stock of provant, as he + was wont to call supplies of this nature. + </p> + <p> + The boat soon approached the rugged pier, which abutted into the loch from + the little town of Inverary, then a rude assemblage of huts, with a very + few stone mansions interspersed, stretching upwards from the banks of Loch + Fine to the principal gate of the castle, before which a scene presented + itself that might easily have quelled a less stout heart, and turned a + more delicate stomach, than those of Ritt-master Dugald Dalgetty, titular + of Drumthwacket. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + For close designs and crooked counsels fit, + Sagacious, bold, and turbulent of wit, + Restless, unfix’d in principle and place, + In power unpleased, impatient in disgrace. + —ABSALOM AND ACHITOPHEL. +</pre> + <p> + The village of Inverary, now a neat country town, then partook of the + rudeness of the seventeenth century, in the miserable appearance of the + houses, and the irregularity of the unpaved street. But a stronger and + more terrible characteristic of the period appeared in the market-place, + which was a space of irregular width, half way betwixt the harbour, or + pier, and the frowning castle-gate, which terminated with its gloomy + archway, portcullis, and flankers, the upper end of the vista. Midway this + space was erected a rude gibbet, on which hung five dead bodies, two of + which from their dress seemed to have been Lowlanders, and the other three + corpses were muffled in their Highland plaids. Two or three women sate + under the gallows, who seemed to be mourning, and singing the coronach of + the deceased in a low voice. But the spectacle was apparently of too + ordinary occurrence to have much interest for the inhabitants at large, + who, while they thronged to look at the military figure, the horse of an + unusual size, and the burnished panoply of Captain Dalgetty, seemed to + bestow no attention whatever on the piteous spectacle which their own + market-place afforded. + </p> + <p> + The envoy of Montrose was not quite so indifferent; and, hearing a word or + two of English escape from a Highlander of decent appearance, he + immediately halted Gustavus and addressed him, “The Provost-Marshal has + been busy here, my friend. May I crave of you what these delinquents have + been justified for?” + </p> + <p> + He looked towards the gibbet as he spoke; and the Gael, comprehending his + meaning rather by his action than his words, immediately replied, “Three + gentlemen caterans,—God sain them,” (crossing himself)—“twa + Sassenach bits o’ bodies, that wadna do something that M’Callum More bade + them;” and turning from Dalgetty with an air of indifference, away he + walked, staying no farther question. + </p> + <p> + Dalgetty shrugged his shoulders and proceeded, for Sir Duncan Campbell’s + tenth or twelfth cousin had already shown some signs of impatience. + </p> + <p> + At the gate of the castle another terrible spectacle of feudal power + awaited him. Within a stockade or palisade, which seemed lately to have + been added to the defences of the gate, and which was protected by two + pieces of light artillery, was a small enclosure, where stood a huge + block, on which lay an axe. Both were smeared with recent blood, and a + quantity of saw-dust strewed around, partly retained and partly + obliterated the marks of a very late execution. + </p> + <p> + As Dalgetty looked on this new object of terror, his principal guide + suddenly twitched him by the skirt of his jerkin, and having thus + attracted his attention, winked and pointed with his finger to a pole + fixed on the stockade, which supported a human head, being that, + doubtless, of the late sufferer. There was a leer on the Highlander’s + face, as he pointed to this ghastly spectacle, which seemed to his + fellow-traveller ominous of nothing good. + </p> + <p> + Dalgetty dismounted from his horse at the gateway, and Gustavus was taken + from him without his being permitted to attend him to the stable, + according to his custom. + </p> + <p> + This gave the soldier a pang which the apparatus of death had not + conveyed.—“Poor Gustavus!” said he to himself, “if anything but good + happens to me, I had better have left him at Darnlinvarach than brought + him here among these Highland salvages, who scarce know the head of a + horse from his tail. But duty must part a man from his nearest and dearest— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “When the cannons are roaring, lads, and the colours are flying, + The lads that seek honour must never fear dying; + Then, stout cavaliers, let us toil our brave trade in, + And fight for the Gospel and the bold King of Sweden.” + </pre> + <p> + Thus silencing his apprehensions with the but-end of a military ballad, he + followed his guide into a sort of guard-room filled with armed + Highlanders. It was intimated to him that he must remain here until his + arrival was communicated to the Marquis. To make this communication the + more intelligible, the doughty Captain gave to the Dunniewassel Sir Duncan + Campbell’s packet, desiring, as well as he could, by signs, that it should + be delivered into the Marquis’s own hand. His guide nodded, and withdrew. + </p> + <p> + The Captain was left about half an hour in this place, to endure with + indifference, or return with scorn, the inquisitive, and, at the same + time, the inimical glances of the armed Gael, to whom his exterior and + equipage were as much subject of curiosity, as his person and country + seemed matter of dislike. All this he bore with military nonchalance, + until, at the expiration of the above period, a person dressed in black + velvet, and wearing a gold chain like a modern magistrate of Edinburgh, + but who was, in fact, steward of the household to the Marquis of Argyle, + entered the apartment, and invited, with solemn gravity, the Captain to + follow him to his master’s presence. + </p> + <p> + The suite of apartments through which he passed, were filled with + attendants or visitors of various descriptions, disposed, perhaps, with + some ostentation, in order to impress the envoy of Montrose with an idea + of the superior power and magnificence belonging to the rival house of + Argyle. One ante-room was filled with lacqueys, arrayed in brown and + yellow, the colours of the family, who, ranged in double file, gazed in + silence upon Captain Dalgetty as he passed betwixt their ranks. Another + was occupied by Highland gentlemen and chiefs of small branches, who were + amusing themselves with chess, backgammon, and other games, which they + scarce intermitted to gaze with curiosity upon the stranger. A third was + filled with Lowland gentlemen and officers, who seemed also in attendance; + and, lastly, the presence-chamber of the Marquis himself showed him + attended by a levee which marked his high importance. + </p> + <p> + This apartment, the folding doors of which were opened for the reception + of Captain Dalgetty, was a long gallery, decorated with tapestry and + family portraits, and having a vaulted ceiling of open wood-work, the + extreme projections of the beams being richly carved and gilded. The + gallery was lighted by long lanceolated Gothic casements, divided by heavy + shafts, and filled with painted glass, where the sunbeams glimmered dimly + through boars’-heads, and galleys, and batons, and swords, armorial + bearings of the powerful house of Argyle, and emblems of the high + hereditary offices of Justiciary of Scotland, and Master of the Royal + Household, which they long enjoyed. At the upper end of this magnificent + gallery stood the Marquis himself, the centre of a splendid circle of + Highland and Lowland gentlemen, all richly dressed, among whom were two or + three of the clergy, called in, perhaps, to be witnesses of his lordship’s + zeal for the Covenant. + </p> + <p> + The Marquis himself was dressed in the fashion of the period, which + Vandyke has so often painted, but his habit was sober and uniform in + colour, and rather rich than gay. His dark complexion, furrowed forehead, + and downcast look, gave him the appearance of one frequently engaged in + the consideration of important affairs, and who has acquired, by long + habit, an air of gravity and mystery, which he cannot shake off even where + there is nothing to be concealed. The cast with his eyes, which had + procured him in the Highlands the nickname of Gillespie Grumach (or the + grim), was less perceptible when he looked downward, which perhaps was one + cause of his having adopted that habit. In person, he was tall and thin, + but not without that dignity of deportment and manners, which became his + high rank. Something there was cold in his address, and sinister in his + look, although he spoke and behaved with the usual grace of a man of such + quality. He was adored by his own clan, whose advancement he had greatly + studied, although he was in proportion disliked by the Highlanders of + other septs, some of whom he had already stripped of their possessions, + while others conceived themselves in danger from his future schemes, and + all dreaded the height to which he was elevated. + </p> + <p> + We have already noticed, that in displaying himself amidst his + councillors, his officers of the household, and his train of vassals, + allies, and dependents, the Marquis of Argyle probably wished to make an + impression on the nervous system of Captain Dugald Dalgetty. But that + doughty person had fought his way, in one department or another, through + the greater part of the Thirty Years’ War in Germany, a period when a + brave and successful soldier was a companion for princes. The King of + Sweden, and, after his example, even the haughty Princes of the Empire, + had found themselves fain, frequently to compound with their dignity, and + silence, when they could not satisfy the pecuniary claims of their + soldiers, by admitting them to unusual privileges and familiarity. Captain + Dugald Dalgetty had it to boast, that he had sate with princes at feasts + made for monarchs, and therefore was not a person to be brow-beat even by + the dignity which surrounded M’Callum More. Indeed, he was naturally by no + means the most modest man in the world, but, on the contrary, had so good + an opinion of himself, that into whatever company he chanced to be thrown, + he was always proportionally elevated in his own conceit; so that he felt + as much at ease in the most exalted society as among his own ordinary + companions. In this high opinion of his own rank, he was greatly fortified + by his ideas of the military profession, which, in his phrase, made a + valiant cavalier a camarade to an emperor. + </p> + <p> + When introduced, therefore, into the Marquis’s presence-chamber, he + advanced to the upper end with an air of more confidence than grace, and + would have gone close up to Argyle’s person before speaking, had not the + latter waved his hand, as a signal to him to stop short. Captain Dalgetty + did so accordingly, and having made his military congee with easy + confidence, he thus accosted the Marquis: “Give you good morrow, my lord—or + rather I should say, good even; BESO A USTED LOS MANOS, as the Spaniard + says.” + </p> + <p> + “Who are you, sir, and what is your business?” demanded the Marquis, in a + tone which was intended to interrupt the offensive familiarity of the + soldier. + </p> + <p> + “That is a fair interrogative, my lord,” answered Dalgetty, “which I shall + forthwith answer as becomes a cavalier, and that PEREMPTORIE, as we used + to say at Mareschal-College.” + </p> + <p> + “See who or what he is, Neal,” said the Marquis sternly, to a gentleman + who stood near him. + </p> + <p> + “I will save the honourable gentleman the labour of investigation,” + continued the Captain. “I am Dugald Dalgetty, of Drumthwacket, that should + be, late Ritt-master in various services, and now Major of I know not what + or whose regiment of Irishes; and I am come with a flag of truce from a + high and powerful lord, James Earl of Montrose, and other noble persons + now in arms for his Majesty. And so, God save King Charles!” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know where you are, and the danger of dallying with us, sir,” + again demanded the Marquis, “that you reply to me as if I were a child or + a fool? The Earl of Montrose is with the English malignants; and I suspect + you are one of those Irish runagates, who are come into this country to + burn and slay, as they did under Sir Phelim O’Neale.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” replied Captain Dalgetty, “I am no renegade, though a Major of + Irishes, for which I might refer your lordship to the invincible Gustavus + Adolphus the Lion of the North, to Bannier, to Oxenstiern, to the warlike + Duke of Saxe-Weimar, Tilly, Wallenstein, Piccolomini, and other great + captains, both dead and living; and touching the noble Earl of Montrose, I + pray your lordship to peruse these my full powers for treating with you in + the name of that right honourable commander.” + </p> + <p> + The Marquis looked slightingly at the signed and sealed paper which + Captain Dalgetty handed to him, and, throwing it with contempt upon a + table, asked those around him what he deserved who came as the avowed + envoy and agent of malignant traitors, in arms against the state? + </p> + <p> + “A high gallows and a short shrift,” was the ready answer of one of the + bystanders. + </p> + <p> + “I will crave of that honourable cavalier who hath last spoken,” said + Dalgetty, “to be less hasty in forming his conclusions, and also of your + lordship to be cautelous in adopting the same, in respect such threats are + to be held out only to base bisognos, and not to men of spirit and action, + who are bound to peril themselves as freely in services of this nature, as + upon sieges, battles, or onslaughts of any sort. And albeit I have not + with me a trumpet, or a white flag, in respect our army is not yet + equipped with its full appointments, yet the honourable cavaliers and your + lordship must concede unto me, that the sanctity of an envoy who cometh on + matter of truth or parle, consisteth not in the fanfare of a trumpet, + whilk is but a sound, or in the flap of a white flag, whilk is but an old + rag in itself, but in the confidence reposed by the party sending, and the + party sent, in the honour of those to whom the message is to be carried, + and their full reliance that they will respect the JUS GENTIUM, as weel as + the law of arms, in the person of the commissionate.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not come hither to lecture us upon the law of arms, sir,” said + the Marquis, “which neither does nor can apply to rebels and insurgents; + but to suffer the penalty of your insolence and folly for bringing a + traitorous message to the Lord Justice General of Scotland, whose duty + calls upon him to punish such an offence with death.” + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” said the Captain, who began much to dislike the turn which + his mission seemed about to take, “I pray you to remember, that the Earl + of Montrose will hold you and your possessions liable for whatever injury + my person, or my horse, shall sustain by these unseemly proceedings, and + that he will be justified in executing retributive vengeance on your + persons and possessions.” + </p> + <p> + This menace was received with a scornful laugh, while one of the Campbells + replied, “It is a far cry to Lochow;” proverbial expression of the tribe, + meaning that their ancient hereditary domains lay beyond the reach of an + invading enemy. “But, gentlemen,” further urged the unfortunate Captain, + who was unwilling to be condemned, without at least the benefit of a full + hearing, “although it is not for me to say how far it may be to Lochow, in + respect I am a stranger to these parts, yet, what is more to the purpose, + I trust you will admit that I have the guarantee of an honourable + gentleman of your own name, Sir Duncan Campbell of Ardenvohr, for my + safety on this mission; and I pray you to observe, that in breaking the + truce towards me, you will highly prejudicate his honour and fair fame.” + </p> + <p> + This seemed to be new information to many of the gentlemen, for they spoke + aside with each other, and the Marquis’s face, notwithstanding his power + of suppressing all external signs of his passions, showed impatience and + vexation. + </p> + <p> + “Does Sir Duncan of Ardenvohr pledge his honour for this person’s safety, + my lord?” said one of the company, addressing the Marquis. + </p> + <p> + “I do not believe it,” answered the Marquis; “but I have not yet had time + to read his letter.” + </p> + <p> + “We will pray your lordship to do so,” said another of the Campbells; “our + name must not suffer discredit through the means of such a fellow as + this.” + </p> + <p> + “A dead fly,” said a clergyman, “maketh the ointment of the apothecary to + stink.” + </p> + <p> + “Reverend sir,” said Captain Dalgetty, “in respect of the use to be + derived, I forgive you the unsavouriness of your comparison; and also + remit to the gentleman in the red bonnet, the disparaging epithet of + FELLOW, which he has discourteously applied to me, who am no way to be + distinguished by the same, unless in so far as I have been called + fellow-soldier by the great Gustavus Adolphus, the Lion of the North, and + other choice commanders, both in Germany and the Low Countries. But, + touching Sir Duncan Campbell’s guarantee of my safety, I will gage my life + upon his making my words good thereanent, when he comes hither to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “If Sir Duncan be soon expected, my Lord,” said one of the intercessors, + “it would be a pity to anticipate matters with this poor man.” + </p> + <p> + “Besides that,” said another, “your lordship—I speak with reverence—should, + at least, consult the Knight of Ardenvohr’s letter, and learn the terms on + which this Major Dalgetty, as he calls himself, has been sent hither by + him.” + </p> + <p> + They closed around the Marquis, and conversed together in a low tone, both + in Gaelic and English. The patriarchal power of the Chiefs was very great, + and that of the Marquis of Argyle, armed with all his grants of hereditary + jurisdiction, was particularly absolute. But there interferes some check + of one kind or other even in the most despotic government. That which + mitigated the power of the Celtic Chiefs, was the necessity which they lay + under of conciliating the kinsmen who, under them, led out the lower + orders to battle, and who formed a sort of council of the tribe in time of + peace. The Marquis on this occasion thought himself under the necessity of + attending to the remonstrances of this senate, or more properly + COUROULTAI, of the name of Campbell, and, slipping out of the circle, gave + orders for the prisoner to be removed to a place of security. + </p> + <p> + “Prisoner!” exclaimed Dalgetty, exerting himself with such force as + wellnigh to shake off two Highlanders, who for some minutes past had + waited the signal to seize him, and kept for that purpose close at his + back. Indeed the soldier had so nearly attained his liberty, that the + Marquis of Argyle changed colour, and stepped back two paces, laying, + however, his hand on his sword, while several of his clan, with ready + devotion, threw themselves betwixt him and the apprehended vengeance of + the prisoner. But the Highland guards were too strong to be shaken off, + and the unlucky Captain, after having had his offensive weapons taken from + him, was dragged off and conducted through several gloomy passages to a + small side-door grated with iron, within which was another of wood. These + were opened by a grim old Highlander with a long white beard, and + displayed a very steep and narrow flight of steps leading downward. The + Captain’s guards pushed him down two or three steps, then, unloosing his + arms, left him to grope his way to the bottom as he could; a task which + became difficult and even dangerous, when the two doors being successively + locked left the prisoner in total darkness. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Whatever stranger visits here, + We pity his sad case, + Unless to worship he draw near + The King of Kings—his Grace. + —BURNS’S EPIGRAM ON A VISIT TO INVERARY. +</pre> + <p> + The Captain, finding himself deprived of light in the manner we have + described, and placed in a very uncertain situation, proceeded to descend + the narrow and broken stair with all the caution in his power, hoping that + he might find at the bottom some place to repose himself. But with all his + care he could not finally avoid making a false step, which brought him + down the four or five last steps too hastily to preserve his equilibrium. + At the bottom he stumbled over a bundle of something soft, which stirred + and uttered a groan, so deranging the Captain’s descent, that he + floundered forward, and finally fell upon his hands and knees on the floor + of a damp and stone-paved dungeon. + </p> + <p> + When Dalgetty had recovered, his first demand was to know over whom he had + stumbled. + </p> + <p> + “He was a man a month since,” answered a hollow and broken voice. + </p> + <p> + “And what is he now, then,” said Dalgetty, “that he thinks it fitting to + lie upon the lowest step of the stairs, and clew’d up like a hurchin, that + honourable cavaliers, who chance to be in trouble, may break their noses + over him?” + </p> + <p> + “What is he now?” replied the same voice; “he is a wretched trunk, from + which the boughs have one by one been lopped away, and which cares little + how soon it is torn up and hewed into billets for the furnace.” + </p> + <p> + “Friend,” said Dalgetty, “I am sorry for you; but PATIENZA, as the + Spaniard says. If you had but been as quiet as a log, as you call + yourself, I should have saved some excoriations on my hands and knees.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a soldier,” replied his fellow-prisoner; “do you complain on + account of a fall for which a boy would not bemoan himself?” + </p> + <p> + “A soldier?” said the Captain; “and how do you know, in this cursed dark + cavern, that I am a soldier?” + </p> + <p> + “I heard your armour clash as you fell,” replied the prisoner, “and now I + see it glimmer. When you have remained as long as I in this darkness, your + eyes will distinguish the smallest eft that crawls on the floor.” + </p> + <p> + “I had rather the devil picked them out!” said Dalgetty; “if this be the + case, I shall wish for a short turn of the rope, a soldier’s prayer, and a + leap from a ladder. But what sort of provant have you got here—what + food, I mean, brother in affliction?” + </p> + <p> + “Bread and water once a day,” replied the voice. + </p> + <p> + “Prithee, friend, let me taste your loaf,” said Dalgetty; “I hope we shall + play good comrades while we dwell together in this abominable pit.” + </p> + <p> + “The loaf and jar of water,” answered the other prisoner, “stand in the + corner, two steps to your right hand. Take them, and welcome. With earthly + food I have wellnigh done.” + </p> + <p> + Dalgetty did not wait for a second invitation, but, groping out the + provisions, began to munch at the stale black oaten loaf with as much + heartiness as we have seen him play his part at better viands. + </p> + <p> + “This bread,” he said, muttering (with his mouth full at the same time), + “is not very savoury; nevertheless, it is not much worse than that which + we ate at the famous leaguer at Werben, where the valorous Gustavus foiled + all the efforts of the celebrated Tilly, that terrible old hero, who had + driven two kings out of the field—namely, Ferdinand of Bohemia and + Christian of Denmark. And anent this water, which is none of the most + sweet, I drink in the same to your speedy deliverance, comrade, not + forgetting mine own, and devoutly wishing it were Rhenish wine, or humming + Lubeck beer, at the least, were it but in honour of the pledge.” + </p> + <p> + While Dalgetty ran on in this way, his teeth kept time with his tongue, + and he speedily finished the provisions which the benevolence or + indifference of his companion in misfortune had abandoned to his voracity. + When this task was accomplished, he wrapped himself in his cloak, and + seating himself in a corner of the dungeon in which he could obtain a + support on each side (for he had always been an admirer of elbow-chairs, + he remarked, even from his youth upward), he began to question his + fellow-captive. + </p> + <p> + “Mine honest friend,” said he, “you and I, being comrades at bed and + board, should be better acquainted. I am Dugald Dalgetty of Drumthwacket, + and so forth, Major in a regiment of loyal Irishes, and Envoy + Extraordinary of a High and Mighty Lord, James Earl of Montrose.—Pray, + what may your name be?” + </p> + <p> + “It will avail you little to know,” replied his more taciturn companion. + </p> + <p> + “Let me judge of that matter,” answered the soldier. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then—Ranald MacEagh is my name—that is, Ranald Son of + the Mist.” + </p> + <p> + “Son of the Mist!” ejaculated Dalgetty. “Son of utter darkness, say I. + But, Ranald, since that is your name, how came you in possession of the + provost’s court of guard? what the devil brought you here, that is to + say?” + </p> + <p> + “My misfortunes and my crimes,” answered Ranald. “Know ye the Knight of + Ardenvohr?” + </p> + <p> + “I do know that honourable person,” replied Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + “But know ye where he now is?” replied Ranald. + </p> + <p> + “Fasting this day at Ardenvohr,” answered the Envoy, “that he may feast + to-morrow at Inverary; in which last purpose if he chance to fail, my + lease of human service will be something precarious.” + </p> + <p> + “Then let him know, one claims his intercession, who is his worst foe and + his best friend,” answered Ranald. + </p> + <p> + “Truly I shall desire to carry a less questionable message,” answered + Dalgetty, “Sir Duncan is not a person to play at reading riddles with.” + </p> + <p> + “Craven Saxon,” said the prisoner, “tell him I am the raven that, fifteen + years since, stooped on his tower of strength and the pledges he had left + there—I am the hunter that found out the wolfs den on the rock, and + destroyed his offspring—I am the leader of the band which surprised + Ardenvohr yesterday was fifteen years, and gave his four children to the + sword.” + </p> + <p> + “Truly, my honest friend,” said Dalgetty, “if that is your best + recommendation to Sir Duncan’s favour, I would pretermit my pleading + thereupon, in respect I have observed that even the animal creation are + incensed against those who intromit with their offspring forcibly, much + more any rational and Christian creatures, who have had violence done upon + their small family. But I pray you in courtesy to tell me, whether you + assailed the castle from the hillock called Drumsnab, whilk I uphold to be + the true point of attack, unless it were to be protected by a sconce.” + </p> + <p> + “We ascended the cliff by ladders of withies or saplings,” said the + prisoner, “drawn up by an accomplice and clansman, who had served six + months in the castle to enjoy that one night of unlimited vengeance. The + owl whooped around us as we hung betwixt heaven and earth; the tide roared + against the foot of the rock, and dashed asunder our skiff, yet no man’s + heart failed him. In the morning there was blood and ashes, where there + had been peace and joy at the sunset.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a pretty camisade, I doubt not, Ranald MacEagh, a very sufficient + onslaught, and not unworthily discharged. Nevertheless, I would have + pressed the house from that little hillock called Drumsnab. But yours is a + pretty irregular Scythian fashion of warfare, Ranald, much resembling that + of Turks, Tartars, and other Asiatic people.—But the reason, my + friend, the cause of this war—the TETERRIMA CAUSA, as I may say? + Deliver me that, Ranald.” + </p> + <p> + “We had been pushed at by the M’Aulays, and other western tribes,” said + Ranald, “till our possessions became unsafe for us.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah ha!” said Dalgetty; “I have faint remembrance of having heard of that + matter. Did you not put bread and cheese into a man’s mouth, when he had + never a stomach whereunto to transmit the same?” + </p> + <p> + “You have heard, then,” said Ranald, “the tale of our revenge on the + haughty forester?” + </p> + <p> + “I bethink me that I have,” said Dalgetty, “and that not of an old date. + It was a merry jest that, of cramming the bread into the dead man’s mouth, + but somewhat too wild and salvage for civilized acceptation, besides + wasting the good victuals. I have seen when at a siege or a leaguer, + Ranald, a living soldier would have been the better, Ranald, for that + crust of bread, whilk you threw away on a dead pow.” + </p> + <p> + “We were attacked by Sir Duncan,” continued MacEagh, “and my brother was + slain—his head was withering on the battlements which we scaled—I + vowed revenge, and it is a vow I have never broken.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be so,” said Dalgetty; “and every thorough-bred soldier will + confess that revenge is a sweet morsel; but in what manner this story will + interest Sir Duncan in your justification, unless it should move him to + intercede with the Marquis to change the manner thereof from hanging, or + simple suspension, to breaking your limbs on the roue or wheel, with the + coulter of a plough, or otherwise putting you to death by torture, + surpasses my comprehension. Were I you, Ranald, I would be for miskenning + Sir Duncan, keeping my own secret, and departing quietly by suffocation, + like your ancestors before you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet hearken, stranger,” said the Highlander. “Sir Duncan of Ardenvohr had + four children. Three died under our dirks, but the fourth survives; and + more would he give to dandle on his knee the fourth child which remains, + than to rack these old bones, which care little for the utmost indulgence + of his wrath. One word, if I list to speak it, could turn his day of + humiliation and fasting into a day of thankfulness and rejoicing, and + breaking of bread. O, I know it by my own heart? Dearer to me is the child + Kenneth, who chaseth the butterfly on the banks of the Aven, than ten sons + who are mouldering in earth, or are preyed on by the fowls of the air.” + </p> + <p> + “I presume, Ranald,” continued Dalgetty, “that the three pretty fellows + whom I saw yonder in the market-place, strung up by the head like rizzer’d + haddocks, claimed some interest in you?” + </p> + <p> + There was a brief pause ere the Highlander replied, in a tone of strong + emotion,—“They were my sons, stranger—they were my sons!—blood + of my blood—bone of my bone!—fleet of foot—unerring in + aim—unvanquished by foemen till the sons of Diarmid overcame them by + numbers! Why do I wish to survive them? The old trunk will less feel the + rending up of its roots, than it has felt the lopping off of its graceful + boughs. But Kenneth must be trained to revenge—the young eagle must + learn from the old how to stoop on his foes. I will purchase for his sake + my life and my freedom, by discovering my secret to the Knight of + Ardenvohr.” + </p> + <p> + “You may attain your end more easily,” said a third voice, mingling in the + conference, “by entrusting it to me.” + </p> + <p> + All Highlanders are superstitious. “The Enemy of Mankind is among us!” + said Ranald MacEagh, springing to his feet. His chains clattered as he + rose, while he drew himself as far as they permitted from the quarter + whence the voice appeared to proceed. His fear in some degree communicated + itself to Captain Dalgetty, who began to repeat, in a sort of polyglot + gibberish, all the exorcisms he had ever heard of, without being able to + remember more than a word or two of each. + </p> + <p> + “IN NOMINE DOMINI, as we said at Mareschal-College—SANTISSMA MADRE + DI DIOS, as the Spaniard has it—ALLE GUTEN GEISTER LOBEN DEN HERRN, + saith the blessed Psalmist, in Dr. Luther’s translation—” + </p> + <p> + “A truce with your exorcisms,” said the voice they had heard before; + “though I come strangely among you, I am mortal like yourselves, and my + assistance may avail you in your present streight, if you are not too + proud to be counselled.” + </p> + <p> + While the stranger thus spoke, he withdrew the shade of a dark lantern, by + whose feeble light Dalgetty could only discern that the speaker who had + thus mysteriously united himself to their company, and mixed in their + conversation, was a tall man, dressed in a livery cloak of the Marquis. + His first glance was to his feet, but he saw neither the cloven foot which + Scottish legends assign to the foul fiend, nor the horse’s hoof by which + he is distinguished in Germany. His first enquiry was, how the stranger + had come among them? + </p> + <p> + “For,” said he, “the creak of these rusty bars would have been heard had + the door been made patent; and if you passed through the keyhole, truly, + sir, put what face you will on it, you are not fit to be enrolled in a + regiment of living men.” + </p> + <p> + “I reserve my secret,” answered the stranger, “until you shall merit the + discovery by communicating to me some of yours. It may be that I shall be + moved to let you out where I myself came in.” + </p> + <p> + “It cannot be through the keyhole, then,” said Captain Dalgetty, “for my + corslet would stick in the passage, were it possible that my head-piece + could get through. As for secrets, I have none of my own, and but few + appertaining to others. But impart to us what secrets you desire to know; + or, as Professor Snufflegreek used to say at the Mareschal-College, + Aberdeen, speak that I may know thee.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not with you I have first to do,” replied the stranger, turning his + light full on the mild and wasted features, and the large limbs of the + Highlander, Ranald MacEagh, who, close drawn up against the walls of the + dungeon, seemed yet uncertain whether his guest was a living being. + </p> + <p> + “I have brought you something, my friend,” said the stranger, in a more + soothing tone, “to mend your fare; if you are to die to-morrow, it is no + reason wherefore you should not live to-night.” + </p> + <p> + “None at all—no reason in the creation,” replied the ready Captain + Dalgetty, who forthwith began to unpack the contents of a small basket + which the stranger had brought under his cloak, while the Highlander, + either in suspicion or disdain, paid no attention to the good cheer. + </p> + <p> + “Here’s to thee, my friend,” said the Captain, who, having already + dispatched a huge piece of roasted kid, was now taking a pull at the + wine-flask. “What is thy name, my good friend?” + </p> + <p> + “Murdoch Campbell, sir,” answered the servant, “a lackey of the Marquis of + Argyle, and occasionally acting as under-warden.” + </p> + <p> + “Then here is to thee once more, Murdoch,” said Dalgetty, “drinking to you + by your proper name for the better luck sake. This wine I take to be + Calcavella. Well, honest Murdoch, I take it on me to say, thou deservest + to be upper-warden, since thou showest thyself twenty times better + acquainted with the way of victualling honest gentlemen that are under + misfortune, than thy principal. Bread and water? out upon him! It was + enough, Murdoch, to destroy the credit of the Marquis’s dungeon. But I see + you would converse with my friend, Ranald MacEagh here. Never mind my + presence; I’ll get me into this corner with the basket, and I will warrant + my jaws make noise enough to prevent my ears from hearing you.” + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding this promise, however, the veteran listened with all the + attention he could to gather their discourse, or, as he described it + himself, “laid his ears back in his neck, like Gustavus, when he heard the + key turn in the girnell-kist.” He could, therefore, owing to the + narrowness of the dungeon, easily overhear the following dialogue. + </p> + <p> + “Are you aware, Son of the Mist,” said the Campbell, “that you will never + leave this place excepting for the gibbet?” + </p> + <p> + “Those who are dearest to me,” answered MacEagh, “have trode that path + before me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you would do nothing,” asked the visitor, “to shun following them?” + </p> + <p> + The prisoner writhed himself in his chains before returning an answer. + </p> + <p> + “I would do much,” at length he said; “not for my own life, but for the + sake of the pledge in the glen of Strath-Aven.” + </p> + <p> + “And what would you do to turn away the bitterness of the hour?” again + demanded Murdoch; “I care not for what cause ye mean to shun it.” + </p> + <p> + “I would do what a man might do, and still call himself a man.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you call yourself a man,” said the interrogator, “who have done the + deeds of a wolf?” + </p> + <p> + “I do,” answered the outlaw; “I am a man like my forefathers—while + wrapt in the mantle of peace, we were lambs—it was rent from us, and + ye now call us wolves. Give us the huts ye have burned, our children whom + ye have murdered, our widows whom ye have starved—collect from the + gibbet and the pole the mangled carcasses, and whitened skulls of our + kinsmen—bid them live and bless us, and we will be your vassals and + brothers—till then, let death, and blood, and mutual wrong, draw a + dark veil of division between us.” + </p> + <p> + “You will then do nothing for your liberty,” said the Campbell. + </p> + <p> + “Anything—but call myself the friend of your tribe,” answered + MacEagh. + </p> + <p> + “We scorn the friendship of banditti and caterans,” retorted Murdoch, “and + would not stoop to accept it.—What I demand to know from you, in + exchange for your liberty, is, where the daughter and heiress of the + Knight of Ardenvohr is now to be found?” + </p> + <p> + “That you may wed her to some beggarly kinsman of your great master,” said + Ranald, “after the fashion of the Children of Diarmid! Does not the valley + of Glenorquhy, to this very hour, cry shame on the violence offered to a + helpless infant whom her kinsmen were conveying to the court of the + Sovereign? Were not her escort compelled to hide her beneath a cauldron, + round which they fought till not one remained to tell the tale? and was + not the girl brought to this fatal castle, and afterwards wedded to the + brother of M’Callum More, and all for the sake of her broad lands?” [Such + a story is told of the heiress of the clan of Calder, who was made + prisoner in the manner described, and afterwards wedded to Sir Duncan + Campbell, from which union the Campbells of Cawdor have their descent.] + </p> + <p> + “And if the tale be true,” said Murdoch, “she had a preferment beyond what + the King of Scots would have conferred on her. But this is far from the + purpose. The daughter of Sir Duncan of Ardenvohr is of our own blood, not + a stranger; and who has so good a right to know her fate as M’Callum More, + the chief of her clan?” + </p> + <p> + “It is on his part, then, that you demand it!” said the outlaw. The + domestic of the Marquis assented. + </p> + <p> + “And you will practise no evil against the maiden?—I have done her + wrong enough already.” + </p> + <p> + “No evil, upon the word of a Christian man,” replied Murdoch. + </p> + <p> + “And my guerdon is to be life and liberty?” said the Child of the Mist. + </p> + <p> + “Such is our paction,” replied the Campbell. + </p> + <p> + “Then know, that the child whom I saved our of compassion at the spoiling + of her father’s tower of strength, was bred as an adopted daughter of our + tribe, until we were worsted at the pass of Ballenduthil, by the fiend + incarnate and mortal enemy of our tribe, Allan M’Aulay of the Bloody hand, + and by the horsemen of Lennox, under the heir of Menteith.” + </p> + <p> + “Fell she into the power of Allan of the Bloody hand,” said Murdoch, “and + she a reputed daughter of thy tribe? Then her blood has gilded the dirk, + and thou hast said nothing to rescue thine own forfeited life.” + </p> + <p> + “If my life rest on hers,” answered the outlaw, “it is secure, for she + still survives; but it has a more insecure reliance—the frail + promise of a son of Diarmid.” + </p> + <p> + “That promise shall not fail you,” said the Campbell, “if you can assure + me that she survives, and where she is to be found.” + </p> + <p> + “In the Castle of Darlinvarach,” said Ranald MacEagh, “under the name of + Annot Lyle. I have often heard of her from my kinsmen, who have again + approached their native woods, and it is not long since mine old eyes + beheld her.” + </p> + <p> + “You!” said Murdoch, in astonishment, “you, a chief among the Children of + the Mist, and ventured so near your mortal foe?” + </p> + <p> + “Son of Diarmid, I did more,” replied the outlaw; “I was in the hall of + the castle, disguised as a harper from the wild shores of Skianach. My + purpose was to have plunged my dirk in the body of the M’Aulay with the + Bloody hand, before whom our race trembles, and to have taken thereafter + what fate God should send me. But I saw Annot Lyle, even when my hand was + on the hilt of my dagger. She touched her clairshach [Harp] to a song of + the Children of the Mist, which she had learned when her dwelling was + amongst us. The woods in which we had dwelt pleasantly, rustled their + green leaves in the song, and our streams were there with the sound of all + their waters. My hand forsook the dagger; the fountains of mine eyes were + opened, and the hour of revenge passed away.—And now, Son of + Diarmid, have I not paid the ransom of my head?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” replied Murdoch, “if your tale be true; but what proof can you + assign for it?” + </p> + <p> + “Bear witness, heaven and earth,” exclaimed the outlaw, “he already looks + how he may step over his word!” + </p> + <p> + “Not so,” replied Murdoch; “every promise shall be kept to you when I am + assured you have told me the truth.—But I must speak a few words + with your companion in captivity.” + </p> + <p> + “Fair and false—ever fair and false,” muttered the prisoner, as he + threw himself once more on the floor of his dungeon. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, Captain Dalgetty, who had attended to every word of this + dialogue, was making his own remarks on it in private. “What the HENKER + can this sly fellow have to say to me? I have no child, either of my own, + so far as I know, or of any other person, to tell him a tale about. But + let him come on—he will have some manoeuvring ere he turn the flank + of the old soldier.” + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, as if he had stood pike in hand to defend a breach, he waited + with caution, but without fear, the commencement of the attack. + </p> + <p> + “You are a citizen of the world, Captain Dalgetty,” said Murdoch Campbell, + “and cannot be ignorant of our old Scotch proverb, GIF-GAF, [In old + English, KA ME KA THEE, i.e. mutually serving each other.] which goes + through all nations and all services.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I should know something of it,” said Dalgetty; “for, except the + Turks, there are few powers in Europe whom I have not served; and I have + sometimes thought of taking a turn either with Bethlem Gabor, or with the + Janizaries.” + </p> + <p> + “A man of your experience and unprejudiced ideas, then, will understand me + at once,” said Murdoch, “when I say, I mean that your freedom shall depend + on your true and up right answer to a few trifling questions respecting + the gentlemen you have left; their state of preparation; the number of + their men, and nature of their appointments; and as much as you chance to + know about their plan of operations.” + </p> + <p> + “Just to satisfy your curiosity,” said Dalgetty, “and without any farther + purpose?” + </p> + <p> + “None in the world,” replied Murdoch; “what interest should a poor devil + like me take in their operations?” + </p> + <p> + “Make your interrogations, then,” said the Captain, “and I will answer + them PREREMTORIE.” + </p> + <p> + “How many Irish may be on their march to join James Graham the + delinquent?” + </p> + <p> + “Probably ten thousand,” said Captain Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + “Ten thousand!” replied Murdoch angrily; “we know that scarce two thousand + landed at Ardnamurchan.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you know more about them than I do,” answered Captain Dalgetty, with + great composure. “I never saw them mustered yet, or even under arms.” + </p> + <p> + “And how many men of the clans may be expected?” demanded Murdoch. + </p> + <p> + “As many as they can make,” replied the Captain. + </p> + <p> + “You are answering from the purpose, sir,” said Murdoch “speak plainly, + will there be five thousand men?” + </p> + <p> + “There and thereabouts,” answered Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + “You are playing with your life, sir, if you trifle with me,” replied the + catechist; “one whistle of mine, and in less than ten minutes your head + hangs on the drawbridge.” + </p> + <p> + “But to speak candidly, Mr. Murdoch,” replied the Captain “do you think it + is a reasonable thing to ask me after the secrets of our army, and I + engaged to serve for the whole campaign? If I taught you how to defeat + Montrose, what becomes of my pay, arrears, and chance of booty?” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you,” said Campbell, “that if you be stubborn, your campaign shall + begin and end in a march to the block at the castle-gate, which stands + ready for such land-laufers; but if you answer my questions faithfully, I + will receive you into my—into the service of M’Callum More.” + </p> + <p> + “Does the service afford good pay?” said Captain Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + “He will double yours, if you will return to Montrose and act under his + direction.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish I had seen you, sir, before taking on with him,” said Dalgetty, + appearing to meditate. + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, I can afford you more advantageous terms now,” said the + Campbell; “always supposing that you are faithful.” + </p> + <p> + “Faithful, that is, to you, and a traitor to Montrose,” answered the + Captain. + </p> + <p> + “Faithful to the cause of religion and good order,” answered Murdoch, + “which sanctifies any deception you may employ to serve it.” + </p> + <p> + “And the Marquis of Argyle—should I incline to enter his service, is + he a kind master?” demanded Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + “Never man kinder,” quoth Campbell. + </p> + <p> + “And bountiful to his officers?” pursued the Captain. + </p> + <p> + “The most open hand in Scotland,” replied Murdoch. + </p> + <p> + “True and faithful to his engagements?” continued Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + “As honourable a nobleman as breathes,” said the clansman. + </p> + <p> + “I never heard so much good of him before,” said Dalgetty; “you must know + the Marquis well,—or rather you must be the Marquis himself!—Lord + of Argyle,” he added, throwing himself suddenly on the disguised nobleman, + “I arrest you in the name of King Charles, as a traitor. If you venture to + call for assistance, I will wrench round your neck.” + </p> + <p> + The attack which Dalgetty made upon Argyle’s person was so sudden and + unexpected, that he easily prostrated him on the floor of the dungeon, and + held him down with one hand, while his right, grasping the Marquis’s + throat, was ready to strangle him on the slightest attempt to call for + assistance. + </p> + <p> + “Lord of Argyle,” he said, “it is now my turn to lay down the terms of + capitulation. If you list to show me the private way by which you entered + the dungeon, you shall escape, on condition of being my LOCUM TENENS, as + we said at the Mareschal-College, until your warder visits his prisoners. + But if not, I will first strangle you—I learned the art from a + Polonian heyduck, who had been a slave in the Ottoman seraglio—and + then seek out a mode of retreat.” + </p> + <p> + “Villain! you would not murder me for my kindness,” murmured Argyle. + </p> + <p> + “Not for your kindness, my lord,” replied Dalgetty: “but first, to teach + your lordship the JUS GENTIUM towards cavaliers who come to you under + safe-conduct; and secondly, to warn you of the danger of proposing + dishonourable terms to any worthy soldado, in order to tempt him to become + false to his standard during the term of his service.” + </p> + <p> + “Spare my life,” said Argyle, “and I will do as you require.” + </p> + <p> + Dalgetty maintained his gripe upon the Marquis’s throat, compressing it a + little while he asked questions, and relaxing it so far as to give him the + power of answering them. + </p> + <p> + “Where is the secret door into the dungeon?” he demanded. + </p> + <p> + “Hold up the lantern to the corner on your right hand, you will discern + the iron which covers the spring,” replied the Marquis. + </p> + <p> + “So far so good.—Where does the passage lead to?” + </p> + <p> + “To my private apartment behind the tapestry,” answered the prostrate + nobleman. + </p> + <p> + “From thence how shall I reach the gateway?” + </p> + <p> + “Through the grand gallery, the anteroom, the lackeys’ waiting hall, the + grand guardroom—” + </p> + <p> + “All crowded with soldiers, factionaries, and attendants?—that will + never do for me, my lord;—have you no secret passage to the gate, as + you have to your dungeons? I have seen such in Germany.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a passage through the chapel,” said the Marquis, “opening from + my apartment.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is the pass-word at the gate?” + </p> + <p> + “The sword of Levi,” replied the Marquis; “but if you will receive my + pledge of honour, I will go with you, escort you through every guard, and + set you at full liberty with a passport.” + </p> + <p> + “I might trust you, my lord, were your throat not already black with the + grasp of my fingers—as it is, BESO LOS MANOS A USTED, as the + Spaniard says. Yet you may grant me a passport;—are there writing + materials in your apartment?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely; and blank passports ready to be signed. I will attend you there,” + said the Marquis, “instantly.” + </p> + <p> + “It were too much honour for the like of me,” said Dalgetty; “your + lordship shall remain under charge of mine honest friend Ranald MacEagh; + therefore, prithee let me drag you within reach of his chain.—Honest + Ranald, you see how matters stand with us. I shall find the means, I doubt + not, of setting you at freedom. Meantime, do as you see me do; clap your + hand thus on the weasand of this high and mighty prince, under his ruff, + and if he offer to struggle or cry out, fail not, my worthy Ranald, to + squeeze doughtily; and if it be AD DELIQUIUM, Ranald, that is, till he + swoon, there is no great matter, seeing he designed your gullet and mine + to still harder usage.” + </p> + <p> + “If he offer at speech or struggle,” said Ranald, “he dies by my hand.” + </p> + <p> + “That is right, Ranald—very spirited:—A thorough-going friend + that understands a hint is worth a million!” + </p> + <p> + Thus resigning the charge of the Marquis to his new confederate, Dalgetty + pressed the spring, by which the secret door flew open, though so well + were its hinges polished and oiled, that it made not the slightest noise + in revolving. The opposite side of the door was secured by very strong + bolts and bars, beside which hung one or two keys, designed apparently to + undo fetterlocks. A narrow staircase, ascending up through the thickness + of the castle-wall, landed, as the Marquis had truly informed him, behind + the tapestry of his private apartment. Such communications were frequent + in old feudal castles, as they gave the lord of the fortress, like a + second Dionysius, the means of hearing the conversation of his prisoners, + or, if he pleased, of visiting them in disguise, an experiment which had + terminated so unpleasantly on the present occasion for Gillespie Grumach. + Having examined previously whether there was any one in the apartment, and + finding the coast clear, the Captain entered, and hastily possessing + himself of a blank passport, several of which lay on the table, and of + writing materials, securing, at the same time, the Marquis’s dagger, and a + silk cord from the hangings, he again descended into the cavern, where, + listening a moment at the door, he could hear the half-stifled voice of + the Marquis making great proffers to MacEagh, on condition he would suffer + him to give an alarm. + </p> + <p> + “Not for a forest of deer—not for a thousand head of cattle,” + answered the freebooter; “not for all the lands that ever called a son of + Diarmid master, will I break the troth I have plighted to him of the + iron-garment!” + </p> + <p> + “He of the iron-garment,” said Dalgetty, entering, “is bounden unto you, + MacEagh, and this noble lord shall be bounden also; but first he must fill + up this passport with the names of Major Dugald Dalgetty and his guide, or + he is like to have a passport to another world.” + </p> + <p> + The Marquis subscribed, and wrote, by the light of the dark lantern, as + the soldier prescribed to him. + </p> + <p> + “And now, Ranald,” said Dalgetty, “strip thy upper garment—thy plaid + I mean, Ranald, and in it will I muffle the M’Callum More, and make of + him, for the time, a Child of the Mist;—Nay, I must bring it over + your head, my lord, so as to secure us against your mistimed clamour.—So, + now he is sufficiently muffled;—hold down your hands, or, by Heaven, + I will stab you to the heart with your own dagger!—nay, you shall be + bound with nothing less than silk, as your quality deserves.—So, now + he is secure till some one comes to relieve him. If he ordered us a late + dinner, Ranald, he is like to be the sufferer;—at what hour, my good + Ranald, did the jailor usually appear?” + </p> + <p> + “Never till the sun was beneath the western wave,” said MacEagh. “Then, my + friend, we shall have three hours good,” said the cautious Captain. “In + the meantime, let us labour for your liberation.” + </p> + <p> + To examine Ranald’s chain was the next occupation. It was undone by means + of one of the keys which hung behind the private door, probably deposited + there, that the Marquis might, if he pleased, dismiss a prisoner, or + remove him elsewhere without the necessity of summoning the warden. The + outlaw stretched his benumbed arms, and bounded from the floor of the + dungeon in all the ecstasy of recovered freedom. + </p> + <p> + “Take the livery-coat of that noble prisoner,” said Captain Dalgetty; “put + it on, and follow close at my heels.” + </p> + <p> + The outlaw obeyed. They ascended the private stair, having first secured + the door behind them, and thus safely reached the apartment of the + Marquis. + </p> + <p> + [The precarious state of the feudal nobles introduced a great deal of + espionage into their castles. Sir Robert Carey mentions his having put on + the cloak of one of his own wardens to obtain a confession from the mouth + of Geordie Bourne, his prisoner, whom he caused presently to be hanged in + return for the frankness of his communication. The fine old Border castle + of Naworth contains a private stair from the apartment of the Lord William + Howard, by which he could visit the dungeon, as is alleged in the + preceding chapter to have been practised by the Marquis of Argyle.] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + This was the entry then, these stairs—but whither after? + Yet he that’s sure to perish on the land + May quit the nicety of card and compass, + And trust the open sea without a pilot.—TRAGEDY OF BENNOVALT. +</pre> + <p> + “Look out for the private way through the chapel, Ranald,” said the + Captain, “while I give a hasty regard to these matters.” + </p> + <p> + Thus speaking, he seized with one hand a bundle of Argyle’s most private + papers, and with the other a purse of gold, both of which lay in a drawer + of a rich cabinet, which stood invitingly open. Neither did he neglect to + possess himself of a sword and pistols, with powder-flask and balls, which + hung in the apartment. “Intelligence and booty,” said the veteran, as he + pouched the spoils, “each honourable cavalier should look to, the one on + his general’s behalf, and the other on his own. This sword is an Andrew + Ferrara, and the pistols better than mine own. But a fair exchange is no + robbery. Soldados are not to be endangered, and endangered gratuitously, + my Lord of Argyle.—But soft, soft, Ranald; wise Man of the Mist, + whither art thou bound?” + </p> + <p> + It was indeed full time to stop MacEagh’s proceedings; for, not finding + the private passage readily, and impatient, it would seem, of farther + delay, he had caught down a sword and target, and was about to enter the + great gallery, with the purpose, doubtless, of fighting his way through + all opposition. + </p> + <p> + “Hold, while you live,” whispered Dalgetty, laying hold on him. “We must + be perdue, if possible. So bar we this door, that it may be thought + M’Callum More would be private—and now let me make a reconnaissance + for the private passage.” + </p> + <p> + By looking behind the tapestry in various places, the Captain at length + discovered a private door, and behind that a winding passage, terminated + by another door, which doubtless entered the chapel. But what was his + disagreeable surprise to hear, on the other side of this second door, the + sonorous voice of a divine in the act of preaching. + </p> + <p> + “This made the villain,” he said, “recommend this to us as a private + passage. I am strongly tempted to return and cut his throat.” + </p> + <p> + He then opened very gently the door, which led into a latticed gallery + used by the Marquis himself, the curtains of which were drawn, perhaps + with the purpose of having it supposed that he was engaged in attendance + upon divine worship, when, in fact, he was absent upon his secular + affairs. There was no other person in the seat; for the family of the + Marquis,—such was the high state maintained in those days,—sate + during service in another gallery, placed somewhat lower than that of the + great man himself. This being the case, Captain Dalgetty ventured to + ensconce himself in the gallery, of which he carefully secured the door. + </p> + <p> + Never (although the expression be a bold one) was a sermon listened to + with more impatience, and less edification, on the part of one, at least, + of the audience. The Captain heard SIXTEENTHLY-SEVENTEENTHLY-EIGHTEENTHLY + and TO CONCLUDE, with a sort of feeling like protracted despair. But no + man can lecture (for the service was called a lecture) for ever; and the + discourse was at length closed, the clergyman not failing to make a + profound bow towards the latticed gallery, little suspecting whom he + honoured by that reverence. To judge from the haste with which they + dispersed, the domestics of the Marquis were scarce more pleased with + their late occupation than the anxious Captain Dalgetty; indeed, many of + them being Highlandmen, had the excuse of not understanding a single word + which the clergyman spoke, although they gave their attendance on his + doctrine by the special order of M’Callum More, and would have done so had + the preacher been a Turkish Imaum. + </p> + <p> + But although the congregation dispersed thus rapidly, the divine remained + behind in the chapel, and, walking up and down its Gothic precincts, + seemed either to be meditating on what he had just been delivering, or + preparing a fresh discourse for the next opportunity. Bold as he was, + Dalgetty hesitated what he ought to do. Time, however, pressed, and every + moment increased the chance of their escape being discovered by the jailor + visiting the dungeon perhaps before his wonted time, and discovering the + exchange which had been made there. At length, whispering Ranald, who + watched all his motions, to follow him and preserve his countenance, + Captain Dalgetty, with a very composed air, descended a flight of steps + which led from the gallery into the body of the chapel. A less experienced + adventurer would have endeavoured to pass the worthy clergyman rapidly, in + hopes to escape unnoticed. But the Captain, who foresaw the manifest + danger of failing in such an attempt, walked gravely to meet the divine + upon his walk in the midst of the chancel, and, pulling off his cap, was + about to pass him after a formal reverence. But what was his surprise to + view in the preacher the very same person with whom he had dined in the + castle of Ardenvohr! Yet he speedily recovered his composure; and ere the + clergyman could speak, was the first to address him. “I could not,” he + said, “leave this mansion without bequeathing to you, my very reverend + sir, my humble thanks for the homily with which you have this evening + favoured us.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not observe, sir,” said the clergyman, “that you were in the + chapel.” + </p> + <p> + “It pleased the honourable Marquis,” said Dalgetty, modestly, “to grace me + with a seat in his own gallery.” The divine bowed low at this intimation, + knowing that such an honour was only vouchsafed to persons of very high + rank. “It has been my fate, sir,” said the Captain, “in the sort of + wandering life which I have led, to have heard different preachers of + different religions—as for example, Lutheran, Evangelical, Reformed, + Calvinistical, and so forth, but never have I listened to such a homily as + yours.” + </p> + <p> + “Call it a lecture, worthy sir,” said the divine, “such is the phrase of + our church.” + </p> + <p> + “Lecture or homily,” said Dalgetty, “it was, as the High Germans say, GANZ + FORTRE FLICH; and I could not leave this place without testifying unto you + what inward emotions I have undergone during your edifying prelection; and + how I am touched to the quick, that I should yesterday, during the + refection, have seemed to infringe on the respect due to such a person as + yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! my worthy sir,” said the clergyman, “we meet in this world as in + the Valley of the Shadow of Death, not knowing against whom we may chance + to encounter. In truth, it is no matter of marvel, if we sometimes jostle + those, to whom, if known, we would yield all respect. Surely, sir, I would + rather have taken you for a profane malignant than for such a devout + person as you prove, who reverences the great Master even in the meanest + of his servants.” + </p> + <p> + “It is always my custom to do so, learned sir,” answered Dalgetty; “for in + the service of the immortal Gustavus—but I detain you from your + meditations,”—his desire to speak of the King of Sweden being for + once overpowered by the necessity of his circumstances. + </p> + <p> + “By no means, my worthy sir,” said the clergyman. “What was, I pray you, + the order of that great Prince, whose memory is so dear to every + Protestant bosom?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, the drums beat to prayers morning and evening, as regularly as for + parade; and if a soldier passed without saluting the chaplain, he had an + hour’s ride on the wooden mare for his pains. Sir, I wish you a very good + evening—I am obliged to depart the castle under M’Callum More’s + passport.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay one instant, sir,” said the preacher; “is there nothing I can do to + testify my respect for the pupil of the great Gustavus, and so admirable a + judge of preaching?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, sir,” said the Captain, “but to shew me the nearest way to the + gate—and if you would have the kindness,” he added, with great + effrontery, “to let a servant bring my horse with him, the dark grey + gelding—call him Gustavus, and he will prick up his ears—for I + know not where the castle-stables are situated, and my guide,” he added, + looking at Ranald, “speaks no English.” + </p> + <p> + “I hasten to accommodate you,” said the clergyman; “your way lies through + that cloistered passage.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, Heaven’s blessing upon your vanity!” said the Captain to himself. “I + was afraid I would have had to march off without Gustavus.” + </p> + <p> + In fact, so effectually did the chaplain exert himself in behalf of so + excellent a judge of composition, that while Dalgetty was parleying with + the sentinels at the drawbridge, showing his passport, and giving the + watchword, a servant brought him his horse, ready saddled for the journey. + In another place, the Captain’s sudden appearance at large after having + been publicly sent to prison, might have excited suspicion and enquiry; + but the officers and domestics of the Marquis were accustomed to the + mysterious policy of their master, and never supposed aught else than that + he had been liberated and intrusted with some private commission by their + master. In this belief, and having received the parole, they gave him free + passage. + </p> + <p> + Dalgetty rode slowly through the town of Inverary, the outlaw attending + upon him like a foot-page at his horse’s shoulder. As they passed the + gibbet, the old man looked on the bodies and wrung his hands. The look and + gesture was momentary, but expressive of indescribable anguish. Instantly + recovering himself, Ranald, in passing, whispered somewhat to one of the + females, who, like Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, seemed engaged in watching + and mourning the victims of feudal injustice and cruelty. The woman + started at his voice, but immediately collected herself and returned for + answer a slight inclination of the head. + </p> + <p> + Dalgetty continued his way out of the town, uncertain whether he should + try to seize or hire a boat and cross the lake, or plunge into the woods, + and there conceal himself from pursuit. In the former event he was liable + to be instantly pursued by the galleys of the Marquis, which lay ready for + sailing, their long yard-arms pointing to the wind, and what hope could he + have in an ordinary Highland fishing-boat to escape from them? If he made + the latter choice, his chance either of supporting or concealing himself + in those waste and unknown wildernesses, was in the highest degree + precarious. The town lay now behind him, yet what hand to turn to for + safety he was unable to determine, and began to be sensible, that in + escaping from the dungeon at Inverary, desperate as the matter seemed, he + had only accomplished the easiest part of a difficult task. If retaken, + his fate was now certain; for the personal injury he had offered to a man + so powerful and so vindictive, could be atoned for only by instant death. + While he pondered these distressing reflections, and looked around with a + countenance which plainly expressed indecision, Ranald MacEagh suddenly + asked him, “which way he intended to journey?” + </p> + <p> + “And that, honest comrade,” answered Dalgetty, “is precisely the question + which I cannot answer you. Truly I begin to hold the opinion, Ranald, that + we had better have stuck by the brown loaf and water-pitcher until Sir + Duncan arrived, who, for his own honour, must have made some fight for + me.” + </p> + <p> + “Saxon,” answered MacEagh, “do not regret having exchanged the foul breath + of yonder dungeon for the free air of heaven. Above all, repent not that + you have served a Son of the Mist. Put yourself under my guidance, and I + will warrant your safety with my head.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you guide me safe through these mountains, and back to the army of + Montrose?” said Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + “I can,” answered MacEagh; “there lives not a man to whom the mountain + passes, the caverns, the glens, the thickets, and the corries are known, + as they are to the Children of the Mist. While others crawl on the level + ground, by the sides of lakes and streams, ours are the steep hollows of + the inaccessible mountains, the birth-place of the desert springs. Not all + the bloodhounds of Argyle can trace the fastnesses through which I can + guide you.” + </p> + <p> + “Say’st thou so, honest Ranald?” replied Dalgetty; “then have on with + thee; for of a surety I shall never save the ship by my own pilotage.” + </p> + <p> + The outlaw accordingly led the way into the wood, by which the castle is + surrounded for several miles, walking with so much dispatch as kept + Gustavus at a round trot, and taking such a number of cross cuts and + turns, that Captain Dalgetty speedily lost all idea where he might be, and + all knowledge of the points of the compass. At length, the path, which had + gradually become more difficult, altogether ended among thickets and + underwood. The roaring of a torrent was heard in the neighbourhood, the + ground became in some places broken, in others boggy, and everywhere unfit + for riding. + </p> + <p> + “What the foul fiend,” said Dalgetty, “is to be done here? I must part + with Gustavus, I fear.” + </p> + <p> + “Take no care for your horse,” said the outlaw; “he shall soon be restored + to you.” + </p> + <p> + As he spoke, he whistled in a low tune, and a lad, half-dressed in tartan, + half naked, having only his own shaggy hair, tied with a thong of leather, + to protect his head and face from sun and weather, lean, and half-starved + in aspect, his wild grey eyes appearing to fill up ten times the + proportion usually allotted to them in the human face, crept out, as a + wild beast might have done, from a thicket of brambles and briars. + </p> + <p> + “Give your horse to the gillie,” said Ranald MacEagh; “your life depends + upon it.” + </p> + <p> + “Och! och!” exclaimed the despairing veteran; “Eheu! as we used to say at + Mareschal-College, must I leave Gustavus in such grooming!” + </p> + <p> + “Are you frantic, to lose time thus!” said his guide; “do we stand on + friends’ ground, that you should part with your horse as if he were your + brother? I tell you, you shall have him again; but if you never saw the + animal, is not life better than the best colt ever mare foaled?” + </p> + <p> + “And that is true too, mine honest friend,” sighed Dalgetty; “yet if you + knew but the value of Gustavus, and the things we two have done and + suffered together—See, he turns back to look at me!—Be kind to + him, my good breechless friend, and I will requite you well.” So saying, + and withal sniffling a little to swallow his grief, he turned from the + heart-rending spectacle in order to follow his guide. + </p> + <p> + To follow his guide was no easy matter, and soon required more agility + than Captain Dalgetty could master. The very first plunge after he had + parted from his charger, carried him, with little assistance from a few + overhanging boughs, or projecting roots of trees, eight foot sheer down + into the course of a torrent, up which the Son of the Mist led the way. + Huge stones, over which they scrambled,—thickets of them and + brambles, through which they had to drag themselves,—rocks which + were to be climbed on the one side with much labour and pain, for the + purpose of an equally precarious descent upon the other; all these, and + many such interruptions, were surmounted by the light-footed and + half-naked mountaineer with an ease and velocity which excited the + surprise and envy of Captain Dalgetty, who, encumbered by his head-piece, + corslet, and other armour, not to mention his ponderous jack-boots, found + himself at length so much exhausted by fatigue, and the difficulties of + the road, that he sate down upon a stone in order to recover his breath, + while he explained to Ranald MacEagh the difference betwixt travelling + EXPEDITUS and IMPEDITUS, as these two military phrases were understood at + Mareschal-College, Aberdeen. The sole answer of the mountaineer was to lay + his hand on the soldier’s arm, and point backward in the direction of the + wind. Dalgetty could spy nothing, for evening was closing fast, and they + were at the bottom of a dark ravine. But at length he could distinctly + hear at a distance the sullen toll of a large bell. + </p> + <p> + “That,” said he, “must be the alarm—the storm-clock, as the Germans + call it.” + </p> + <p> + “It strikes the hour of your death,” answered Ranald, “unless you can + accompany me a little farther. For every toll of that bell a brave man has + yielded up his soul.” + </p> + <p> + “Truly, Ranald, my trusty friend,” said Dalgetty, “I will not deny that + the case may be soon my own; for I am so forfoughen (being, as I explained + to you, IMPEDITUS, for had I been EXPEDITUS, I mind not pedestrian + exercise the flourish of a fife), that I think I had better ensconce + myself in one of these bushes, and even lie quiet there to abide what + fortune God shall send me. I entreat you, mine honest friend Ranald, to + shift for yourself, and leave me to my fortune, as the Lion of the North, + the immortal Gustavus Adolphus, my never-to-be-forgotten master (whom you + must surely have heard of, Ranald, though you may have heard of no one + else), said to Francis Albert, Duke of Saxe-Lauenburgh, when he was + mortally wounded on the plains of Lutzen. Neither despair altogether of my + safety, Ranald, seeing I have been in as great pinches as this in Germany—more + especially, I remember me, that at the fatal battle of Nerlingen—after + which I changed service—” + </p> + <p> + “If you would save your father’s son’s breath to help his child out of + trouble, instead of wasting it upon the tales of Seannachies,” said + Ranald, who now grew impatient of the Captain’s loquacity, “or if your + feet could travel as fast as your tongue, you might yet lay your head on + an unbloody pillow to-night.” + </p> + <p> + “Something there is like military skill in that,” replied the Captain, + “although wantonly and irreverently spoken to an officer of rank. But I + hold it good to pardon such freedoms on a march, in respect of the + Saturnalian license indulged in such cases to the troops of all nations. + And now, resume thine office, friend Ranald, in respect I am + well-breathed; or, to be more plain, I PRAE, SEQUAR, as we used to say at + Mareschal-College.” + </p> + <p> + Comprehending his meaning rather from his motions than his language, the + Son of the Mist again led the way, with an unerring precision that looked + like instinct, through a variety of ground the most difficult and broken + that could well be imagined. Dragging along his ponderous boots, + encumbered with thigh-pieces, gauntlets, corslet, and back-piece, not to + mention the buff jerkin which he wore under all these arms, talking of his + former exploits the whole way, though Ranald paid not the slightest + attention to him, Captain Dalgetty contrived to follow his guide a + considerable space farther, when the deep-mouthed baying of a hound was + heard coming down the wind, as if opening on the scent of its prey. + </p> + <p> + “Black hound,” said Ranald, “whose throat never boded good to a Child of + the Mist, ill fortune to her who littered thee! hast thou already found + our trace? But thou art too late, swart hound of darkness, and the deer + has gained the herd.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he whistled very softly, and was answered in a tone equally low + from the top of a pass, up which they had for some time been ascending. + Mending their pace, they reached the top, where the moon, which had now + risen bright and clear, showed to Dalgetty a party of ten or twelve + Highlanders, and about as many women and children, by whom Ranald MacEagh + was received with such transports of joy, as made his companion easily + sensible that those by whom he was surrounded, must of course be Children + of the Mist. The place which they occupied well suited their name and + habits. It was a beetling crag, round which winded a very narrow and + broken footpath, commanded in various places by the position which they + held. + </p> + <p> + Ranald spoke anxiously and hastily to the children of his tribe, and the + men came one by one to shake hands with Dalgetty, while the women, + clamorous in their gratitude, pressed round to kiss even the hem of his + garment. “They plight their faith to you,” said Ranald MacEagh, “for + requital of the good deed you have done to the tribe this day.” + </p> + <p> + “Enough said, Ranald,” answered the soldier, “enough said—tell them + I love not this shaking of hands—it confuses ranks and degrees in + military service; and as to kissing of gauntlets, puldrons, and the like, + I remember that the immortal Gustavus, as he rode through the streets of + Nuremberg, being thus worshipped by the poulace (being doubtless far more + worthy of it than a poor though honourable cavalier like myself), did say + unto them, in the way of rebuke, ‘If you idolize me thus like a god, who + shall assure you that the vengeance of Heaven will not soon prove me to be + a mortal?’—And so here, I suppose you intend to make a stand against + your followers, Ranald—VOTO A DIOS, as the Spaniard says?—a + very pretty position—as pretty a position for a small peloton of men + as I have seen in my service—no enemy can come towards it by the + road without being at the mercy of cannon and musket.—But then, + Ranald, my trusty comrade, you have no cannon, I dare to aver, and I do + not see that any of these fellows have muskets either. So with what + artillery you propose making good the pass, before you come to hand blows, + truly, Ranald, it passeth my apprehension.” + </p> + <p> + “With the weapons and with the courage of our fathers,” said MacEagh; and + made the Captain observe, that the men of his party were armed with bows + and arrows. + </p> + <p> + “Bows and arrows!” exclaimed Dalgetty; “ha! ha! ha! have we Robin Hood and + Little John back again? Bows and arrows! why, the sight has not been seen + in civilized war for a hundred years. Bows and arrows! and why not + weavers’ beams, as in the days of Goliah? Ah! that Dugald Dalgetty, of + Drumthwacket, should live to see men fight with bows and arrows!—The + immortal Gustavus would never have believed it—nor Wallenstein—nor + Butler—nor old Tilly,—Well, Ranald, a cat can have but its + claws—since bows and arrows are the word, e’en let us make the best + of it. Only, as I do not understand the scope and range of such + old-fashioned artillery, you must make the best disposition you can out of + your own head for MY taking the command, whilk I would have gladly done + had you been to fight with any Christian weapons, is out of the question, + when you are to combat like quivered Numidians. I will, however, play my + part with my pistols in the approaching melley, in respect my carabine + unhappily remains at Gustavus’s saddle.—My service and thanks to + you,” he continued, addressing a mountaineer who offered him a bow; + “Dugald Dalgetty may say of himself, as he learned at Mareschal-College, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Non eget Mauri jaculis, neque arcu, + Nec venenatis gravida sagittis, + Fusce, pharetra; +</pre> + <p> + whilk is to say—” + </p> + <p> + Ranald MacEagh a second time imposed silence on the talkative commander as + before, by pulling his sleeve, and pointing down the pass. The bay of the + bloodhound was now approaching nearer and nearer, and they could hear the + voices of several persons who accompanied the animal, and hallooed to each + other as they dispersed occasionally, either in the hurry of their + advance, or in order to search more accurately the thickets as they came + along. They were obviously drawing nearer and nearer every moment. + MacEagh, in the meantime, proposed to Captain Dalgetty to disencumber + himself of his armour, and gave him to understand that the women should + transport it to a place of safety. + </p> + <p> + “I crave your pardon, sir,” said Dalgetty, “such is not the rule of our + foreign service in respect I remember the regiment of Finland cuirassiers + reprimanded, and their kettle-drums taken from them, by the immortal + Gustavus, because they had assumed the permission to march without their + corslets, and to leave them with the baggage. Neither did they strike + kettle-drums again at the head of that famous regiment until they behaved + themselves so notably at the field of Leipsic; a lesson whilk is not to be + forgotten, any more than that exclamation of the immortal Gustavus, ‘Now + shall I know if my officers love me, by their putting on their armour; + since, if my officers are slain, who shall lead my soldiers into victory?’ + Nevertheless, friend Ranald, this is without prejudice to my being rid of + these somewhat heavy boots, providing I can obtain any other succedaneum; + for I presume not to say that my bare soles are fortified so as to endure + the flints and thorns, as seems to be the case with your followers.” + </p> + <p> + To rid the Captain of his cumbrous greaves, and case his feet in a pair of + brogues made out of deerskin, which a Highlander stripped off for his + accommodation, was the work of a minute, and Dalgetty found himself much + lightened by the exchange. He was in the act of recommending to Ranald + MacEagh, to send two or three of his followers a little lower to + reconnoitre the pass, and, at the same time, somewhat to extend his front, + placing two detached archers at each flank by way of posts of observation, + when the near cry of the hound apprised them that the pursuers were at the + bottom of the pass. All was then dead silence; for, loquacious as he was + on other occasions, Captain Dalgetty knew well the necessity of an ambush + keeping itself under covert. + </p> + <p> + The moon gleamed on the broken pathway, and on the projecting cliffs of + rock round which it winded, its light intercepted here and there by the + branches of bushes and dwarf-trees, which, finding nourishment in the + crevices of the rocks, in some places overshadowed the brow and ledge of + the precipice. Below, a thick copse-wood lay in deep and dark shadow, + somewhat resembling the billows of a half-seen ocean. From the bosom of + that darkness, and close to the bottom of the precipice, the hound was + heard at intervals baying fearfully, sounds which were redoubled by the + echoes of the woods and rocks around. At intervals, these sunk into deep + silence, interrupted only by the plashing noise of a small runnel of + water, which partly fell from the rock, partly found a more silent passage + to the bottom along its projecting surface. Voices of men were also heard + in stifled converse below; it seemed as if the pursuers had not discovered + the narrow path which led to the top of the rock, or that, having + discovered it, the peril of the ascent, joined to the imperfect light, and + the uncertainty whether it might not be defended, made them hesitate to + attempt it. + </p> + <p> + At length a shadowy figure was seen, which raised itself up from the abyss + of darkness below, and, emerging into the pale moonlight, began cautiously + and slowly to ascend the rocky path. The outline was so distinctly marked, + that Captain Dalgetty could discover not only the person of a Highlander, + but the long gun which he carried in his hand, and the plume of feathers + which decorated his bonnet. “TAUSEND TEIFLEN! that I should say so, and so + like to be near my latter end!” ejaculated the Captain, but under his + breath, “what will become of us, now they have brought musketry to + encounter our archers?” + </p> + <p> + But just as the pursuer had attained a projecting piece of rock about half + way up the ascent, and, pausing, made a signal for those who were still at + the bottom to follow him, an arrow whistled from the bow of one of the + Children of the Mist, and transfixed him with so fatal a wound, that, + without a single effort to save himself, he lost his balance, and fell + headlong from the cliff on which he stood, into the darkness below. The + crash of the boughs which received him, and the heavy sound of his fall + from thence to the ground, was followed by a cry of horror and surprise, + which burst from his followers. The Children of the Mist, encouraged in + proportion to the alarm this first success had caused among the pursuers, + echoed back the clamour with a loud and shrill yell of exultation, and, + showing themselves on the brow of the precipice, with wild cries and + vindictive gestures, endeavoured to impress on their enemies a sense at + once of their courage, their numbers, and their state of defence. Even + Captain Dalgetty’s military prudence did not prevent his rising up, and + calling out to Ranald, more loud than prudence warranted, “CAROCCO, + comrade, as the Spaniard says! The long-bow for ever! In my poor + apprehension now, were you to order a file to advance and take position—” + </p> + <p> + “The Sassenach!” cried a voice from beneath, “mark the Sassenach sidier! I + see the glitter of his breastplate.” At the same time three muskets were + discharged; and while one ball rattled against the corslet of proof, to + the strength of which our valiant Captain had been more than once indebted + for his life, another penetrated the armour which covered the front of his + left thigh, and stretched him on the ground. Ranald instantly seized him + in his arms, and bore him back from the edge of the precipice, while he + dolefully ejaculated, “I always told the immortal Gustavus, Wallenstein, + Tilly, and other men of the sword, that, in my poor mind, taslets ought to + be made musket-proof.” + </p> + <p> + With two or three earnest words in Gaelic, MacEagh commended the wounded + man to the charge of the females, who were in the rear of his little + party, and was then about to return to the contest. But Dalgetty detained + him, grasping a firm hold of his plaid.—“I know not how this matter + may end—but I request you will inform Montrose, that I died like a + follower of the immortal Gustavus—and I pray you, take heed how you + quit your present strength, even for the purpose of pursuing the enemy, if + you gain any advantage—and—and—” + </p> + <p> + Here Dalgetty’s breath and eyesight began to fail him through loss of + blood, and MacEagh, availing himself of this circumstance, extricated from + his grasp the end of his own mantle, and substituted that of a female, by + which the Captain held stoutly, thereby securing, as he conceived, the + outlaw’s attention to the military instructions which he continued to pour + forth while he had any breath to utter them, though they became gradually + more and more incoherent—“And, comrade, you will be sure to keep + your musketeers in advance of your stand of pikes, Lochaber-axes, and + two-handed swords—Stand fast, dragoons, on the left flank!—where + was I?—Ay, and, Ranald, if ye be minded to retreat, leave some + lighted matches burning on the branches of the trees—it shows as if + they were lined with shot—But I forget—ye have no match-locks + nor habergeons—only bows and arrows—bows and arrows! ha! ha! + ha!” + </p> + <p> + Here the Captain sunk back in an exhausted condition, altogether unable to + resist the sense of the ludicrous which, as a modern man-at-arms, he + connected with the idea of these ancient weapons of war. It was a long + time ere he recovered his senses; and, in the meantime, we leave him in + the care of the Daughters of the Mist; nurses as kind and attentive, in + reality, as they were wild and uncouth in outward appearance. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + But if no faithless action stain + Thy true and constant word, + I’ll make thee famous by my pen, + And glorious by my sword. + + I’ll serve thee in such noble ways + As ne’er were known before; + I’ll deck and crown thy head with bays, + And love thee more and more.—MONTROSE’S LINES. +</pre> + <p> + We must now leave, with whatever regret, the valiant Captain Dalgetty, to + recover of his wounds or otherwise as fate shall determine, in order + briefly to trace the military operations of Montrose, worthy as they are + of a more important page, and a better historian. By the assistance of the + chieftains whom we have commemorated, and more especially by the junction + of the Murrays, Stewarts, and other clans of Athole, which were peculiarly + zealous in the royal cause, he soon assembled an army of two or three + thousand Highlanders, to whom he successfully united the Irish under + Colkitto. This last leader, who, to the great embarrassment of Milton’s + commentators, is commemorated in one of that great poet’s sonnets, was + properly named Alister, or Alexander M’Donnell, by birth a Scottish + islesman, and related to the Earl of Antrim, to whose patronage he owed + the command assigned him in the Irish troops. In many respects he merited + this distinction. He was brave to intrepidity, and almost to + insensibility; very strong and active in person, completely master of his + weapons, and always ready to show the example in the extremity of danger. + To counterbalance these good qualities, it must be recorded, that he was + inexperienced in military tactics, and of a jealous and presumptuous + disposition, which often lost to Montrose the fruits of Colkitto’s + gallantry. Yet such is the predominance of outward personal qualities in + the eyes of a mild people, that the feats of strength and courage shown by + this champion, seem to have made a stronger impression upon the minds of + the Highlanders, than the military skill and chivalrous spirit of the + great Marquis of Montrose. Numerous traditions are still preserved in the + Highland glens concerning Alister M’Donnell, though the name of Montrose + is rarely mentioned among them. + </p> + <p> + [Milton’s book, entitled TETRACHORDON, had been ridiculed, it would seem, + by the divines assembled at Westminster, and others, on account of the + hardness of the title; and Milton in his sonnet retaliates upon the + barbarous Scottish names which the Civil War had made familiar to English + ears:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + . . . . why is it harder, sirs, than Gordon, + COLKITTO or M’Donald, or Gallasp? + These rugged names to our like mouths grow sleek, + That would have made Quintillian stare and gasp. +</pre> + <p> + “We may suppose,” says Bishop Newton, “that these were persons of note + among the Scotch ministers, who were for pressing and enforcing the + Covenant;” whereas Milton only intends to ridicule the barbarism of + Scottish names in general, and quotes, indiscriminately, that of + Gillespie, one of the Apostles of the Covenant, and those of Colkitto and + M’Donnell (both belonging to one person), one of its bitterest enemies.] + </p> + <p> + The point upon which Montrose finally assembled his little army, was in + Strathearn, on the verge of the Highlands of Perthshire, so as to menace + the principal town of that county. + </p> + <p> + His enemies were not unprepared for his reception. Argyle, at the head of + his Highlanders, was dogging the steps of the Irish from the west to the + east, and by force, fear, or influence, had collected an army nearly + sufficient to have given battle to that under Montrose. The Lowlands were + also prepared, for reasons which we assigned at the beginning of this + tale. A body of six thousand infantry, and six or seven thousand cavalry, + which profanely assumed the title of God’s army, had been hastily + assembled from the shires of Fife, Angus, Perth, Stirling, and the + neighbouring counties. A much less force in former times, nay, even in the + preceding reign, would have been sufficient to have secured the Lowlands + against a more formidable descent of Highlanders, than those united under + Montrose; but times had changed strangely within the last half century. + Before that period, the Lowlanders were as constantly engaged in war as + the mountaineers, and were incomparably better disciplined and armed. The + favourite Scottish order of battle somewhat resembled the Macedonian + phalanx. Their infantry formed a compact body, armed with long spears, + impenetrable even to the men-at-arms of the age, though well mounted, and + arrayed in complete proof. It may easily be conceived, therefore, that + their ranks could not be broken by the disorderly charge of Highland + infantry armed for close combat only, with swords, and ill furnished with + missile weapons, and having no artillery whatever. + </p> + <p> + This habit of fight was in a great measure changed by the introduction of + muskets into the Scottish Lowland service, which, not being as yet + combined with the bayonet, was a formidable weapon at a distance, but gave + no assurance against the enemy who rushed on to close quarters. The pike, + indeed, was not wholly disused in the Scottish army; but it was no longer + the favourite weapon, nor was it relied upon as formerly by those in whose + hands it was placed; insomuch that Daniel Lupton, a tactician of the day, + has written a book expressly upon the superiority of the musket. This + change commenced as early as the wars of Gustavus Adolphus, whose marches + were made with such rapidity, that the pike was very soon thrown aside in + his army, and exchanged for fire-arms. A circumstance which necessarily + accompanied this change, as well as the establishment of standing armies, + whereby war became a trade, was the introduction of a laborious and + complicated system of discipline, combining a variety of words of command + with corresponding operations and manoeuvres, the neglect of any one of + which was sure to throw the whole into confusion. War therefore, as + practised among most nations of Europe, had assumed much more than + formerly the character of a profession or mystery, to which previous + practice and experience were indispensable requisites. Such was the + natural consequence of standing armies, which had almost everywhere, and + particularly in the long German wars, superseded what may be called the + natural discipline of the feudal militia. + </p> + <p> + The Scottish Lowland militia, therefore, laboured under a double + disadvantage when opposed to Highlanders. They were divested of the spear, + a weapon which, in the hands of their ancestors, had so often repelled the + impetuous assaults of the mountaineer; and they were subjected to a new + and complicated species of discipline, well adapted, perhaps, to the use + of regular troops, who could be rendered completely masters of it, but + tending only to confuse the ranks of citizen soldiers, by whom it was + rarely practised, and imperfectly understood. So much has been done in our + own time in bringing back tactics to their first principles, and in + getting rid of the pedantry of war, that it is easy for us to estimate the + disadvantages under which a half-trained militia laboured, who were taught + to consider success as depending upon their exercising with precision a + system of tactics, which they probably only so far comprehended as to find + out when they were wrong, but without the power of getting right again. + Neither can it be denied, that, in the material points of military habits + and warlike spirit, the Lowlanders of the seventeenth century had sunk far + beneath their Highland countrymen. + </p> + <p> + From the earliest period down to the union of the crowns, the whole + kingdom of Scotland, Lowlands as well as Highlands, had been the constant + scene of war, foreign and domestic; and there was probably scarce one of + its hardy inhabitants, between the age of sixteen and sixty, who was not + as willing in point of fact as he was literally bound in law, to assume + arms at the first call of his liege lord, or of a royal proclamation. The + law remained the same in sixteen hundred and forty-five as a hundred years + before, but the race of those subjected to it had been bred up under very + different feelings. They had sat in quiet under their vine and under their + fig-tree, and a call to battle involved a change of life as new as it was + disagreeable. Such of them, also, who lived near unto the Highlands, were + in continual and disadvantageous contact with the restless inhabitants of + those mountains, by whom their cattle were driven off, their dwellings + plundered, and their persons insulted, and who had acquired over them that + sort of superiority arising from a constant system of aggression. The + Lowlanders, who lay more remote, and out of reach of these depredations, + were influenced by the exaggerated reports circulated concerning the + Highlanders, whom, as totally differing in laws, language, and dress, they + were induced to regard as a nation of savages, equally void of fear and of + humanity. These various prepossessions, joined to the less warlike habits + of the Lowlanders, and their imperfect knowledge of the new and + complicated system of discipline for which they had exchanged their + natural mode of fighting, placed them at great disadvantage when opposed + to the Highlander in the field of battle. The mountaineers, on the + contrary, with the arms and courage of their fathers, possessed also their + simple and natural system of tactics, and bore down with the fullest + confidence upon an enemy, to whom anything they had been taught of + discipline was, like Saul’s armour upon David, a hinderance rather than a + help, “because they had not proved it.” + </p> + <p> + It was with such disadvantages on the one side, and such advantages on the + other, to counterbalance the difference of superior numbers and the + presence of artillery and cavalry, that Montrose encountered the army of + Lord Elcho upon the field of Tippermuir. The Presbyterian clergy had not + been wanting in their efforts to rouse the spirit of their followers, and + one of them, who harangued the troops on the very day of battle, hesitated + not to say, that if ever God spoke by his mouth, he promised them, in His + name, that day, a great and assured victory. The cavalry and artillery + were also reckoned sure warrants of success, as the novelty of their + attack had upon former occasions been very discouraging to the + Highlanders. The place of meeting was an open heath, and the ground + afforded little advantage to either party, except that it allowed the + horse of the Covenanters to act with effect. + </p> + <p> + A battle upon which so much depended, was never more easily decided. The + Lowland cavalry made a show of charging; but, whether thrown into disorder + by the fire of musketry, or deterred by a disaffection to the service said + to have prevailed among the gentlemen, they made no impression on the + Highlanders whatever, and recoiled in disorder from ranks which had + neither bayonets nor pikes to protect them. Montrose saw, and instantly + availed himself of this advantage. He ordered his whole army to charge, + which they performed with the wild and desperate valour peculiar to + mountaineers. One officer of the Covenanters alone, trained in the Italian + wars, made a desperate defence upon the right wing. In every other point + their line was penetrated at the first onset; and this advantage once + obtained, the Lowlanders were utterly unable to contend at close quarters + with their more agile and athletic enemies. Many were slain on the held, + and such a number in the pursuit, that above one-third of the Covenanters + were reported to have fallen; in which number, however, must be computed a + great many fat burgesses who broke their wind in the flight, and thus died + without stroke of sword. [We choose to quote our authority for a fact so + singular:—“A great many burgesses were killed—twenty-five + householders in St. Andrews—many were bursten in the flight, and + died without stroke.”—See Baillie’s Letters, vol. ii. page 92.] + </p> + <p> + The victors obtained possession of Perth, and obtained considerable sums + of money, as well as ample supplies of arms and ammunition. But those + advantages were to be balanced against an almost insurmountable + inconvenience that uniformly attended a Highland army. The clans could be + in no respect induced to consider themselves as regular soldiers, or to + act as such. Even so late as the year 1745-6, when the Chevalier Charles + Edward, by way of making an example, caused a soldier to be shot for + desertion, the Highlanders, who composed his army, were affected as much + by indignation as by fear. They could not conceive any principle of + justice upon which a man’s life could be taken, for merely going home when + it did not suit him to remain longer with the army. Such had been the + uniform practice of their fathers. When a battle was over, the campaign + was, in their opinion, ended; if it was lost, they sought safety in their + mountains—if won, they returned there to secure their booty. At + other times they had their cattle to look after, and their harvests to sow + or reap, without which their families would have perished for want. In + either case, there was an end of their services for the time; and though + they were easily enough recalled by the prospect of fresh adventures and + more plunder, yet the opportunity of success was, in the meantime, lost, + and could not afterwards be recovered. This circumstance serves to show, + even if history had not made us acquainted with the same fact, that the + Highlanders had never been accustomed to make war with the view of + permanent conquest, but only with the hope of deriving temporary + advantage, or deciding some immediate quarrel. It also explains the reason + why Montrose, with all his splendid successes, never obtained any secure + or permanent footing in the Lowlands, and why even those Lowland noblemen + and gentlemen, who were inclined to the royal cause, showed diffidence and + reluctance to join an army of a character so desultory and irregular, as + might lead them at all times to apprehend that the Highlanders securing + themselves by a retreat to their mountains, would leave whatever + Lowlanders might have joined them to the mercy of an offended and + predominant enemy. The same consideration will also serve to account for + the sudden marches which Montrose was obliged to undertake, in order to + recruit his army in the mountains, and for the rapid changes of fortune, + by which we often find him obliged to retreat from before those enemies + over whom he had recently been victorious. If there should be any who read + these tales for any further purpose than that of immediate amusement, they + will find these remarks not unworthy of their recollection. + </p> + <p> + It was owing to such causes, the slackness of the Lowland loyalists and + the temporary desertion of his Highland followers, that Montrose found + himself, even after the decisive victory of Tippermuir, in no condition to + face the second army with which Argyle advanced upon him from the + westward. In this emergency, supplying by velocity the want of strength, + he moved suddenly from Perth to Dundee, and being refused admission into + that town, fell northward upon Aberdeen, where he expected to be joined by + the Gordons and other loyalists. But the zeal of these gentlemen was, for + the time, effectually bridled by a large body of Covenanters, commanded by + the Lord Burleigh, and supposed to amount to three thousand men. These + Montrose boldly attacked with half their number. The battle was fought + under the walls Of the city, and the resolute valour of Montrose’s + followers was again successful against every disadvantage. + </p> + <p> + But it was the fate of this great commander, always to gain the glory, but + seldom to reap the fruits of victory. He had scarcely time to repose his + small army in Aberdeen, ere he found, on the one hand, that the Gordons + were likely to be deterred from joining him, by the reasons we have + mentioned, with some others peculiar to their chief, the Marquis of + Huntly; on the other hand, Argyle, whose forces had been augmented by + those of several Lowland noblemen, advanced towards Montrose at the head + of an army much larger than he had yet had to cope with. These troops + moved, indeed, with slowness, corresponding to the cautious character of + their commander; but even that caution rendered Argyle’s approach + formidable, since his very advance implied, that he was at the head of an + army irresistibly superior. + </p> + <p> + There remained one mode of retreat open to Montrose, and he adopted it. He + threw himself into the Highlands, where he could set pursuit at defiance, + and where he was sure, in every glen, to recover those recruits who had + left his standard to deposit their booty in their native fastnesses. It + was thus that the singular character of the army which Montrose commanded, + while, on the one hand, it rendered his victory in some degree nugatory, + enabled him, on the other, under the most disadvantageous circumstances, + to secure his retreat, recruit his forces, and render himself more + formidable than ever to the enemy, before whom he had lately been unable + to make a stand. + </p> + <p> + On the present occasion he threw himself into Badenoch, and rapidly + traversing that district, as well as the neighbouring country of Athole, + he alarmed the Covenanters by successive attacks upon various unexpected + points, and spread such general dismay, that repeated orders were + dispatched by the Parliament to Argyle, their commander, to engage, and + disperse Montrose at all rates. + </p> + <p> + These commands from his superiors neither suited the haughty spirit, nor + the temporizing and cautious policy, of the nobleman to whom they were + addressed. He paid, accordingly, no regard to them, but limited his + efforts to intrigues among Montrose’s few Lowland followers, many of whom + had become disgusted with the prospect of a Highland campaign, which + exposed their persons to intolerable fatigue, and left their estates at + the Covenanters’ mercy. Accordingly, several of them left Montrose’s camp + at this period. He was joined, however, by a body of forces of more + congenial spirit, and far better adapted to the situation in which he + found himself. This reinforcement consisted of a large body of + Highlanders, whom Colkitto, dispatched for that purpose, had levied in + Argyleshire. Among the most distinguished was John of Moidart, called the + Captain of Clan Ranald, with the Stewarts of Appin, the Clan Gregor, the + Clan M’Nab, and other tribes of inferior distinction. By these means, + Montrose’s army was so formidably increased, that Argyle cared no longer + to remain in the command of that opposed to him, but returned to + Edinburgh, and there threw up his commission, under pretence that his army + was not supplied with reinforcements and provisions in the manner in which + they ought to have been. From thence the Marquis returned to Inverary, + there, in full security, to govern his feudal vassals, and patriarchal + followers, and to repose himself in safety on the faith of the Clan + proverb already quoted—“It is a far cry to Lochow.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Such mountains steep, such craggy hills, + His army on one side enclose: + The other side, great griesly gills + Did fence with fenny mire and moss. + + Which when the Earl understood, + He council craved of captains all, + Who bade set forth with mournful mood, + And take such fortune as would fall. + —FLODDEN FIELD, AN ANCIENT POEM. +</pre> + <p> + Montrose had now a splendid career in his view, provided he could obtain + the consent of his gallant, but desultory troops, and their independent + chieftains. The Lowlands lay open before him without an army adequate to + check his career; for Argyle’s followers had left the Covenanters’ host + when their master threw up his commission, and many other troops, tired of + the war, had taken the same opportunity to disband themselves. By + descending Strath-Tay, therefore, one of the most convenient passes from + the Highlands, Montrose had only to present himself in the Lowlands, in + order to rouse the slumbering spirit of chivalry and of loyalty which + animated the gentlemen to the north of the Forth. The possession of these + districts, with or without a victory, would give him the command of a + wealthy and fertile part of the kingdom, and would enable him, by regular + pay, to place his army on a permanent footing, to penetrate as far as the + capital, perhaps from thence to the Border, where he deemed it possible to + communicate with the yet unsubdued forces of King Charles. + </p> + <p> + Such was the plan of operations by which the truest glory was to be + acquired, and the most important success insured for the royal cause. + Accordingly it did not escape the ambitious and daring spirit of him whose + services had already acquired him the title of the Great Marquis. But + other motives actuated many of his followers, and perhaps were not without + their secret and unacknowledged influence upon his own feelings. + </p> + <p> + The Western Chiefs in Montrose’s army, almost to a man, regarded the + Marquis of Argyle as the most direct and proper object of hostilities. + Almost all of them had felt his power; almost all, in withdrawing their + fencible men from their own glens, left their families and property + exposed to his vengeance; all, without exception, were desirous of + diminishing his sovereignty; and most of them lay so near his territories, + that they might reasonably hope to be gratified by a share of his spoil. + To these Chiefs the possession of Inverary and its castle was an event + infinitely more important and desirable than the capture of Edinburgh. The + latter event could only afford their clansmen a little transitory pay or + plunder; the former insured to the Chiefs themselves indemnity for the + past, and security for the future. Besides these personal reasons, the + leaders, who favoured this opinion, plausibly urged, that though, at his + first descent into the Lowlands, Montrose might be superior to the enemy, + yet every day’s march he made from the hills must diminish his own forces, + and expose him to the accumulated superiority of any army which the + Covenanters could collect from the Lowland levies and garrisons. On the + other hand, by crushing Argyle effectually, he would not only permit his + present western friends to bring out that proportion of their forces which + they must otherwise leave at home for protection of their families; but + farther, he would draw to his standard several tribes already friendly to + his cause, but who were prevented from joining him by fear of M’Callum + More. + </p> + <p> + These arguments, as we have already hinted, found something responsive in + Montrose’s own bosom, not quite consonant with the general heroism of his + character. The houses of Argyle and Montrose had been in former times, + repeatedly opposed to each other in war and in politics, and the superior + advantages acquired by the former, had made them the subject of envy and + dislike to the neighbouring family, who, conscious of equal desert, had + not been so richly rewarded. This was not all. The existing heads of these + rival families had stood in the most marked opposition to each other since + the commencement of the present troubles. + </p> + <p> + Montrose, conscious of the superiority of his talents, and of having + rendered great service to the Covenanters at the beginning of the war, had + expected from that party the supereminence of council and command, which + they judged it safer to intrust to the more limited faculties, and more + extensive power, of his rival Argyle. The having awarded this preference, + was an injury which Montrose never forgave the Covenanters; and he was + still less likely to extend his pardon to Argyle, to whom he had been + postponed. He was therefore stimulated by every feeling of hatred which + could animate a fiery temper in a fierce age, to seek for revenge upon the + enemy of his house and person; and it is probable that these private + motives operated not a little upon his mind, when he found the principal + part of his followers determined rather to undertake an expedition against + the territories of Argyle, than to take the far more decisive step of + descending at once into the Lowlands. + </p> + <p> + Yet whatever temptation Montrose found to carry into effect his attack + upon Argyleshire, he could not easily bring himself to renounce the + splendid achievement of a descent upon the Lowlands. He held more than one + council with the principal Chiefs, combating, perhaps, his own secret + inclination as well as theirs. He laid before them the extreme difficulty + of marching even a Highland army from the eastward into Argyleshire, + through passes scarcely practicable for shepherds and deer-stalkers, and + over mountains, with which even the clans lying nearest to them did not + pretend to be thoroughly acquainted. These difficulties were greatly + enhanced by the season of the year, which was now advancing towards + December, when the mountain-passes, in themselves so difficult, might be + expected to be rendered utterly impassable by snowstorms. These objections + neither satisfied nor silenced the Chiefs, who insisted upon their ancient + mode of making war, by driving the cattle, which, according to the Gaelic + phrase, “fed upon the grass of their enemy.” The council was dismissed + late at night, and without coming to any decision, excepting that the + Chiefs, who supported the opinion that Argyle should be invaded, promised + to seek out among their followers those who might be most capable of + undertaking the office of guides upon the expedition. + </p> + <p> + Montrose had retired to the cabin which served him for a tent, and + stretched himself upon a bed of dry fern, the only place of repose which + it afforded. But he courted sleep in vain, for the visions of ambition + excluded those of Morpheus. In one moment he imagined himself displaying + the royal banner from the reconquered Castle of Edinburgh, detaching + assistance to a monarch whose crown depended upon his success, and + receiving in requital all the advantages and preferments which could be + heaped upon him whom a king delighteth to honour. At another time this + dream, splendid as it was, faded before the vision of gratified vengeance, + and personal triumph over a personal enemy. To surprise Argyle in his + stronghold of Inverary—to crush in him at once the rival of his own + house and the chief support of the Presbyterians—to show the + Covenanters the difference between the preferred Argyle and the postponed + Montrose, was a picture too flattering to feudal vengeance to be easily + relinquished. + </p> + <p> + While he lay thus busied with contradictory thoughts and feelings, the + soldier who stood sentinel upon his quarters announced to the Marquis that + two persons desired to speak with his Excellency. + </p> + <p> + “Their names?” answered Montrose, “and the cause of their urgency at such + a late hour?” + </p> + <p> + On these points, the sentinel, who was one of Colkitto’s Irishmen, could + afford his General little information; so that Montrose, who at such a + period durst refuse access to no one, lest he might have been neglecting + some important intelligence, gave directions, as a necessary precaution, + to put the guard under arms, and then prepared to receive his untimely + visitors. His groom of the chambers had scarce lighted a pair of torches, + and Montrose himself had scarce risen from his couch, when two men + entered, one wearing a Lowland dress, of shamoy leather worn almost to + tatters; the other a tall upright old Highlander, of a complexion which + might be termed iron-grey, wasted and worn by frost and tempest. + </p> + <p> + “What may be your commands with me, my friends?” said the Marquis, his + hand almost unconsciously seeking the but of one of his pistols; for the + period, as well as the time of night, warranted suspicions which the good + mien of his visitors was not by any means calculated to remove. + </p> + <p> + “I pray leave to congratulate you,” said the Lowlander, “my most noble + General, and right honourable lord, upon the great battles which you have + achieved since I had the fortune to be detached from you, It was a pretty + affair that tuilzie at Tippermuir; nevertheless, if I might be permitted + to counsel—” + </p> + <p> + “Before doing so,” said the Marquis, “will you be pleased to let me know + who is so kind as to favour me with his opinion?” + </p> + <p> + “Truly, my lord,” replied the man, “I should have hoped that was + unnecessary, seeing it is not so long since I took on in your service, + under promise of a commission as Major, with half a dollar of daily pay + and half a dollar of arrears; and I am to trust your lordship has nut + forgotten my pay as well as my person?” + </p> + <p> + “My good friend, Major Dalgetty,” said Montrose, who by this time + perfectly recollected his man, “you must consider what important things + have happened to put my friends’ faces out of my memory, besides this + imperfect light; but all conditions shall be kept.—And what news + from Argyleshire, my good Major? We have long given you up for lost, and I + was now preparing to take the most signal vengeance upon the old fox who + infringed the law of arms in your person.” + </p> + <p> + “Truly, my noble lord,” said Dalgetty, “I have no desire that my return + should put any stop to so proper and becoming an intention; verily it is + in no shape in the Earl of Argyle’s favour or mercy that I now stand + before you, and I shall be no intercessor for him. But my escape is, under + Heaven, and the excellent dexterity which, as an old and accomplished + cavalier, I displayed in effecting the same,—I say, under these, it + is owing to the assistance of this old Highlander, whom I venture to + recommend to your lordship’s special favour, as the instrument of saving + your lordship’s to command, Dugald Dalgetty of Drumthwacket.” + </p> + <p> + “A thankworthy service,” said the Marquis, gravely, “which shall certainly + be requited in the manner it deserves.” + </p> + <p> + “Kneel down, Ranald,” said Major Dalgetty (as we must now call him), + “kneel down, and kiss his Excellency’s hand.” + </p> + <p> + The prescribed form of acknowledgment not being according to the custom of + Ranald’s country, he contented himself with folding his arms on his bosom, + and making a low inclination of his head. + </p> + <p> + “This poor man, my lord,” said Major Dalgetty, continuing his speech with + a dignified air of protection towards Ranald M’Eagh, “has strained all his + slender means to defend my person from mine enemies, although having no + better weapons of a missile sort than bows and arrows, whilk your lordship + will hardly believe.” + </p> + <p> + “You will see a great many such weapons in my camp,” said Montrose, “and + we find them serviceable.” [In fact, for the admirers of archery it may be + stated, not only that many of the Highlanders in Montrose’s army used + these antique missiles, but even in England the bow and quiver, once the + glory of the bold yeomen of that land, were occasionally used during the + great civil wars.] + </p> + <p> + “Serviceable, my lord!” said Dalgetty; “I trust your lordship will permit + me to be surprised—bows and arrows!—I trust you will forgive + my recommending the substitution of muskets, the first convenient + opportunity. But besides defending me, this honest Highlander also was at + the pains of curing me, in respect that I had got a touch of the wars in + my retreat, which merits my best requital in this special introduction of + him to your lordship’s notice and protection.” + </p> + <p> + “What is your name, my friend?” said Montrose, turning to the Highlander. + </p> + <p> + “It may not be spoken,” answered the mountaineer. + </p> + <p> + “That is to say,” interpreted Major Dalgetty, “he desires to have his name + concealed, in respect he hath in former days taken a castle, slain certain + children, and done other things, whilk, as your good lordship knows, are + often practised in war time, but excite no benevolence towards the + perpetrator in the friends of those who sustain injury. I have known, in + my military experience, many brave cavaliers put to death by the boors, + simply for having used military license upon the country.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand,” said Montrose: “This person is at feud with some of our + followers. Let him retire to the court of guard, and we will think of the + best mode of protecting him.” + </p> + <p> + “You hear, Ranald,” said Major Dalgetty, with an air of superiority, “his + Excellency wishes to hold privy council with me, you must go to the court + of guard.—He does not know where that is, poor fellow!—he is a + young soldier for so old a man; I will put him under the charge of a + sentinel, and return to your lordship incontinent.” He did so, and + returned accordingly. + </p> + <p> + Montrose’s first enquiry respected the embassy to Inverary; and he + listened with attention to Dalgetty’s reply, notwithstanding the prolixity + of the Major’s narrative. It required an effort from the Marquis to + maintain his attention; but no one better knew, that where information is + to be derived from the report of such agents as Dalgetty, it can only be + obtained by suffering them to tell their story in their own way. + Accordingly the Marquis’s patience was at length rewarded. Among other + spoils which the Captain thought himself at liberty to take, was a packet + of Argyle’s private papers. These he consigned to the hands of his + General; a humour of accounting, however, which went no farther, for I do + not understand that he made any mention of the purse of gold which he had + appropriated at the same time that he made seizure of the papers + aforesaid. Snatching a torch from the wall, Montrose was in an instant + deeply engaged in the perusal of these documents, in which it is probable + he found something to animate his personal resentment against his rival + Argyle. + </p> + <p> + “Does he not fear me?” said he; “then he shall feel me. Will he fire my + castle of Murdoch?—Inverary shall raise the first smoke.—O for + a guide through the skirts of Strath-Fillan!” + </p> + <p> + Whatever might be Dalgetty’s personal conceit, he understood his business + sufficiently to guess at Montrose’s meaning. He instantly interrupted his + own prolix narration of the skirmish which had taken place, and the wound + he had received in his retreat, and began to speak to the point which he + saw interested his General. + </p> + <p> + “If,” said he, “your Excellency wishes to make an infall into Argyleshire, + this poor man, Ranald, of whom I told you, together with his children and + companions, know every pass into that land, both leading from the east and + from the north.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Montrose; “what reason have you to believe their knowledge + so extensive?” + </p> + <p> + “So please your Excellency,” answered Dalgetty, “during the weeks that I + remained with them for cure of my wound, they were repeatedly obliged to + shift their quarters, in respect of Argyle’s repeated attempts to + repossess himself of the person of an officer who was honoured with Your + Excellency’s confidence; so that I had occasion to admire the singular + dexterity and knowledge of the face of the country with which they + alternately achieved their retreat and their advance; and when, at length, + I was able to repair to your Excellency’s standard, this honest simple + creature, Ranald MacEagh, guided me by paths which my steed Gustavus + (which your lordship may remember) trode with perfect safety, so that I + said to myself, that where guides, spies, or intelligencers, were required + in a Highland campaign in that western country, more expert persons than + he and his attendants could not possibly be desired.” + </p> + <p> + “And can you answer for this man’s fidelity?” said Montrose; “what is his + name and condition?” + </p> + <p> + “He is an outlaw and robber by profession, something also of a homicide or + murderer,” answered Dalgetty; “and by name, called Ranald MacEagh; whilk + signifies, Ranald, the Son of the Mist.” + </p> + <p> + “I should remember something of that name,” said Montrose, pausing: “Did + not these Children of the Mist perpetrate some act of cruelty upon the + M’Aulays?” + </p> + <p> + Major Dalgetty mentioned the circumstance of the murder of the forester, + and Montrose’s active memory at once recalled all the circumstances of the + feud. + </p> + <p> + “It is most unlucky,” said Montrose, “this inexpiable quarrel between + these men and the M’Aulays. Allan has borne himself bravely in these wars, + and possesses, by the wild mystery of his behaviour and language, so much + influence over the minds of his countrymen, that the consequences of + disobliging him might be serious. At the same time, these men being so + capable of rendering useful service, and being as you say, Major Dalgetty, + perfectly trustworthy—” + </p> + <p> + “I will pledge my pay and arrears, my horse and arms, my head and neck, + upon their fidelity,” said the Major; “and your Excellency knows, that a + soldado could say no more for his own father.” + </p> + <p> + “True,” said Montrose; “but as this is a matter of particular moment, I + would willingly know the grounds of so positive an assurance.” + </p> + <p> + “Concisely then, my lord,” said the Major, “not only did they disdain to + profit by a handsome reward which Argyle did me the honour to place upon + this poor head of mine, and not only did they abstain from pillaging my + personal property, whilk was to an amount that would have tempted regular + soldiers in any service of Europe; and not only did they restore me my + horse, whilk your Excellency knows to be of value, but I could not prevail + on them to accept one stiver, doit, or maravedi, for the trouble and + expenses of my sick bed. They actually refused my coined money when freely + offered,—a tale seldom to be told in a Christian land.” + </p> + <p> + “I admit,” said Montrose, after a moment’s reflection, “that their conduct + towards you is good evidence of their fidelity; but how to secure against + the breaking out of this feud?” He paused, and then suddenly added, “I had + forgot I have supped, while you, Major, have been travelling by + moonlight.” + </p> + <p> + He called to his attendants to fetch a stoup of wine and some + refreshments. Major Dalgetty, who had the appetite of a convalescent + returned from Highland quarters, needed not any pressing to partake of + what was set before him, but proceeded to dispatch his food with such + alacrity, that the Marquis, filling a cup of wine, and drinking to his + health, could not help remarking, that coarse as the provisions of his + camp were, he was afraid Major Dalgetty had fared much worse during his + excursion into Argyleshire. + </p> + <p> + “Your Excellency may take your corporal oath upon that,” said the worthy + Major, speaking with his mouth full; “for Argyle’s bread and water are yet + stale and mouldy in my recollection, and though they did their best, yet + the viands that the Children of the Mist procured for me, poor helpless + creatures as they were, were so unrefreshful to my body, that when + enclosed in my armour, whilk I was fain to leave behind me for + expedition’s sake, I rattled therein like the shrivelled kernel in a nut + that hath been kept on to a second Hallowe’en.” + </p> + <p> + “You must take the due means to repair these losses, Major Dalgetty.” + </p> + <p> + “In troth,” answered the soldier, “I shall hardly be able to compass that, + unless my arrears are to be exchanged for present pay; for I protest to + your Excellency, that the three stone weight which I have lost were simply + raised upon the regular accountings of the States of Holland.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” said the Marquis, “you are only reduced to good marching + order. As for the pay, let us once have victory—victory, Major, and + your wishes, and all our wishes, shall be amply fulfilled. Meantime, help + yourself to another cup of wine.” + </p> + <p> + “To your Excellency’s health,” said the Major, filling a cup to the brim, + to show the zeal with which he drank the toast, “and victory over all our + enemies, and particularly over Argyle! I hope to twitch another handful + from his board myself—I have had one pluck at it already.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true,” answered Montrose; “but to return to those men of the Mist. + You understand, Dalgetty, that their presence here, and the purpose for + which we employ them, is a secret between you and me?” + </p> + <p> + Delighted, as Montrose had anticipated, with this mark of his General’s + confidence, the Major laid his hand upon his nose, and nodded + intelligence. + </p> + <p> + “How many may there be of Ranald’s followers?” continued the Marquis. + </p> + <p> + “They are reduced, so far as I know, to some eight or ten men,” answered + Major Dalgetty, “and a few women and children.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are they now?” demanded Montrose. + </p> + <p> + “In a valley, at three miles’ distance,” answered the soldier, “awaiting + your Excellency’s command; I judged it not fit to bring them to your + leaguer without your Excellency’s orders.” + </p> + <p> + “You judged very well,” said Montrose; “it would be proper that they + remain where they are, or seek some more distant place of refuge. I will + send them money, though it is a scarce article with me at present.” + </p> + <p> + “It is quite unnecessary,” said Major Dalgetty; “your Excellency has only + to hint that the M’Aulays are going in that direction, and my friends of + the Mist will instantly make volte-face, and go to the right about.” + </p> + <p> + “That were scarce courteous,” said the Marquis. “Better send them a few + dollars to purchase them some cattle for the support of the women and + children.” + </p> + <p> + “They know how to come by their cattle at a far cheaper rate,” said the + Major; “but let it be as your Excellency wills.” + </p> + <p> + “Let Ranald MacEagh,” said Montrose, “select one or two of his followers, + men whom he can trust, and who are capable of keeping their own secret and + ours; these, with their chief for scout-master-general, shall serve for + our guides. Let them be at my tent to-morrow at daybreak, and see, if + possible, that they neither guess my purpose, nor hold any communication + with each other in private.—This old man, has he any children?” + </p> + <p> + “They have been killed or hanged,” answered the Major, “to the number of a + round dozen, as I believe—but he hath left one grand-child, a smart + and hopeful youth, whom I have noted to be never without a pebble in his + plaid-nook, to fling at whatsoever might come in his way; being a symbol, + that, like David, who was accustomed to sling smooth stones taken from the + brook, he may afterwards prove an adventurous warrior.” + </p> + <p> + “That boy, Major Dalgetty,” said the Marquis, “I will have to attend upon + my own person. I presume he will have sense enough to keep his name + secret?” + </p> + <p> + “Your Excellency need not fear that,” answered Dalgetty; “these Highland + imps, from the moment they chip the shell—” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” interrupted Montrose, “that boy shall be pledge for the fidelity + of his parent, and if he prove faithful, the child’s preferment shall be + his reward.—And now, Major Dalgetty, I will license your departure + for the night; tomorrow you will introduce this MacEagh, under any name or + character he may please to assume. I presume his profession has rendered + him sufficiently expert in all sort of disguises; or we may admit John of + Moidart into our schemes, who has sense, practicability, and intelligence, + and will probably allow this man for a time to be disguised as one of his + followers. For you, Major, my groom of the chambers will be your + quarter-master for this evening.” + </p> + <p> + Major Dalgetty took his leave with a joyful heart greatly elated with the + reception he had met with, and much pleased with the personal manners of + his new General, which, as he explained at great length to Ranald MacEagh, + reminded him in many respects of the demeanour of the immortal Gustavus + Adolphus, the Lion of the North, and Bulwark of the Protestant Faith. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The march begins in military state, + And nations on his eyes suspended wait; + Stern famine guards the solitary coast, + And winter barricades the realms of frost. + He comes,—nor want, nor cold, his course delay. + —VANITY OF HUMAN WISHES. +</pre> + <p> + By break of day Montrose received in his cabin old MacEagh, and questioned + him long and particularly as to the means of approaching the country of + Argyle. He made a note of his answers, which he compared with those of two + of his followers, whom he introduced as the most prudent and experienced. + He found them to correspond in all respects; but, still unsatisfied where + precaution was so necessary, the Marquis compared the information he had + received with that he was able to collect from the Chiefs who lay most + near to the destined scene of invasion, and being in all respects + satisfied of its accuracy, he resolved to proceed in full reliance upon + it. + </p> + <p> + In one point Montrose changed his mind. Having judged it unfit to take the + boy Kenneth into his own service, lest, in case of his birth being + discovered, it should be resented as an offence by the numerous clans who + entertained a feudal enmity to this devoted family, he requested the Major + to take him in attendance upon himself; and as he accompanied this request + with a handsome DOUCEUR, under pretence of clothing and equipping the lad, + this change was agreeable to all parties. + </p> + <p> + It was about breakfast-time, when Major Dalgetty, being dismissed by + Montrose, went in quest of his old acquaintances, Lord Menteith and the + M’Aulays, to whom he longed to communicate his own adventures, as well as + to learn from them the particulars of the campaign. It may be imagined he + was received with great glee by men to whom the late uniformity of their + military life had rendered any change of society an interesting novelty. + Allan M’Aulay alone seemed to recoil from his former acquaintance, + although, when challenged by his brother, he could render no other reason + than a reluctance to be familiar with one who had been so lately in the + company of Argyle, and other enemies. Major Dalgetty was a little alarmed + by this sort of instinctive consciousness which Allan seemed to entertain + respecting the society he had been lately keeping; he was soon satisfied, + however, that the perceptions of the seer in this particular were not + infallible. + </p> + <p> + As Ranald MacEagh was to be placed under Major Dalgetty’s protection and + superintendence, it was necessary he should present him to those persons + with whom he was most likely to associate. The dress of the old man had, + in the meantime, been changed from the tartan of his clan to a sort of + clothing peculiar to the men of the distant Isles, resembling a waistcoat + with sleeves, and a petticoat, all made in one piece. This dress was laced + from top to bottom in front, and bore some resemblance to that called + Polonaise, still worn by children in Scotland of the lower rank. The + tartan hose and bonnet completed the dress, which old men of the last + century remembered well to have seen worn by the distant Islesmen who came + to the Earl of Mar’s standard in the year 1715. + </p> + <p> + Major Dalgetty, keeping his eye on Allan as he spoke, introduced Ranald + MacEagh under the fictitious name of Ranald MacGillihuron in Benbecula, + who had escaped with him out of Argyle’s prison. He recommended him as a + person skilful in the arts of the harper and the senachie, and by no means + contemptible in the quality of a second-sighted person or seer. While + making this exposition, Major Dalgetty stammered and hesitated in a way so + unlike the usual glib forwardness of his manner, that he could not have + failed to have given suspicion to Allan M’Aulay, had not that person’s + whole attention been engaged in steadily perusing the features of the + person thus introduced to him. This steady gaze so much embarrassed Ranald + MacEagh, that his hand was beginning to sink down towards his dagger, in + expectation of a hostile assault, when Allan, suddenly crossing the floor + of the hut, extended his hand to him in the way of friendly greeting. They + sat down side by side, and conversed in a low mysterious tone of voice. + Menteith and Angus M’Aulay were not surprised at this, for there prevailed + among the Highlanders who pretended to the second-sight, a sort of + Freemasonry, which generally induced them, upon meeting, to hold + communication with each other on the nature and extent of their visionary + experiences. + </p> + <p> + “Does the sight come gloomy upon your spirits?” said Allan to his new + acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + “As dark as the shadow upon the moon,” replied Ranald, “when she is + darkened in her mid-course in heaven, and prophets foretell of evil + times.” + </p> + <p> + “Come hither,” said Allan, “come more this way, I would converse with you + apart; for men say that in your distant islands the sight is poured forth + with more clearness and power than upon us, who dwell near the Sassenach.” + </p> + <p> + While they were plunged into their mystic conference, the two English + cavaliers entered the cabin in the highest possible spirits, and announced + to Angus M’Aulay that orders had been issued that all should hold + themselves in readiness for an immediate march to the westward. Having + delivered themselves of their news with much glee, they paid their + compliments to their old acquaintance Major Dalgetty, whom they instantly + recognised, and enquired after the health of his charger, Gustavus. + </p> + <p> + “I humbly thank you, gentlemen,” answered the soldier, “Gustavas is well, + though, like his master, somewhat barer on the ribs than when you offered + to relieve me of him at Darnlinvarach; and let me assure you, that before + you have made one or two of those marches which you seem to contemplate + with so much satisfaction in prospect, you will leave, my good knights, + some of your English beef, and probably an English horse or two, behind + you.” + </p> + <p> + Both exclaimed that they cared very little what they found or what they + left, provided the scene changed from dogging up and down Angus and + Aberdeenshire, in pursuit of an enemy who would neither fight nor run + away. + </p> + <p> + “If such be the case,” said Angus M’Aulay, “I must give orders to my + followers, and make provision too for the safe conveyance of Annot Lyle; + for an advance into M’Callum More’s country will be a farther and fouler + road than these pinks of Cumbrian knighthood are aware of.” So saying, he + left the cabin. + </p> + <p> + “Annot Lyle!” repeated Dalgetty, “is she following the campaign?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely,” replied Sir Giles Musgrave, his eye glancing slightly from Lord + Menteith to Allan M’Aulay; “we could neither march nor fight, advance nor + retreat, without the influence of the Princess of Harps.” + </p> + <p> + “The Princess of Broadswords and Targets, I say,” answered his companion; + “for the Lady of Montrose herself could not be more courteously waited + upon; she has four Highland maidens, and as many bare-legged gillies, to + wait upon her orders.” + </p> + <p> + “And what would you have, gentlemen?” said Allan, turning suddenly from + the Highlander with whom he was in conversation; “would you yourselves + have left an innocent female, the companion of your infancy, to die by + violence, or perish by famine? There is not, by this time, a roof upon the + habitation of my fathers—our crops have been destroyed, and our + cattle have been driven—and you, gentlemen, have to bless God, that, + coming from a milder and more civilized country, you expose only your own + lives in this remorseless war, without apprehension that your enemies will + visit with their vengeance the defenceless pledges you may have left + behind you.” + </p> + <p> + The Englishmen cordially agreed that they had the superiority in this + respect; and the company, now dispersing, went each to his several charge + or occupation. + </p> + <p> + Allan lingered a moment behind, still questioning the reluctant Ranald + MacEagh upon a point in his supposed visions, by which he was greatly + perplexed. “Repeatedly,” he said, “have I had the sight of a Gael, who + seemed to plunge his weapon into the body of Menteith,—of that young + nobleman in the scarlet laced cloak, who has just now left the bothy. But + by no effort, though I have gazed till my eyes were almost fixed in the + sockets, can I discover the face of this Highlander, or even conjecture + who he may be, although his person and air seem familiar to me.” [See Note + II.—Wraiths.] + </p> + <p> + “Have you reversed your own plaid,” said Ranald, “according to the rule of + the experienced Seers in such case?” + </p> + <p> + “I have,” answered Allan, speaking low, and shuddering as if with internal + agony. + </p> + <p> + “And in what guise did the phantom then appear to you?” said Ranald. + </p> + <p> + “With his plaid also reversed,” answered Allan, in the same low and + convulsed tone. + </p> + <p> + “Then be assured,” said Ranald, “that your own hand, and none other, will + do the deed of which you have witnessed the shadow.” + </p> + <p> + “So has my anxious soul a hundred times surmised,” replied Allan. “But it + is impossible! Were I to read the record in the eternal book of fate, I + would declare it impossible—we are bound by the ties of blood, and + by a hundred ties more intimate—we have stood side by side in + battle, and our swords have reeked with the blood of the same enemies—it + is IMPOSSIBLE I should harm him!” + </p> + <p> + “That you WILL do so,” answered Ranald, “is certain, though the cause be + hid in the darkness of futurity. You say,” he continued, suppressing his + own emotions with difficulty, “that side by side you have pursued your + prey like bloodhounds—have you never seen bloodhounds turn their + fangs against each other, and fight over the body of a throttled deer?” + </p> + <p> + “It is false!” said M’Aulay, starting up, “these are not the forebodings + of fate, but the temptation of some evil spirit from the bottomless pit!” + So saying, he strode out of the cabin. + </p> + <p> + “Thou hast it!” said the Son of the Mist, looking after him with an air of + exultation; “the barbed arrow is in thy side! Spirits of the slaughtered, + rejoice! soon shall your murderers’ swords be dyed in each other’s blood.” + </p> + <p> + On the succeeding morning all was prepared, and Montrose advanced by rapid + marches up the river Tay, and poured his desultory forces into the + romantic vale around the lake of the same name, which lies at the head of + that river. The inhabitants were Campbells, not indeed the vassals of + Argyle, but of the allied and kindred house of Glenorchy, which now bears + the name of Breadalbane. Being taken by surprise, they were totally + unprepared for resistance, and were compelled to be passive witnesses of + the ravages which took place among their flocks and herds. Advancing in + this manner to the vale of Loch Dochart, and laying waste the country + around him, Montrose reached the most difficult point of his enterprise. + </p> + <p> + To a modern army, even with the assistance of the good military road which + now leads up by Teinedrum to the head of Loch Awe, the passage of these + extensive wilds would seem a task of some difficulty. But at this period, + and for long afterwards, there was no road or path whatsoever; and to add + to the difficulty, the mountains were already covered with snow. It was a + sublime scene to look up to them, piled in great masses, one upon another, + the front rank of dazzling whiteness, while those which arose behind them + caught a rosy tint from the setting of a clear wintry sun. Ben Cruachan, + superior in magnitude, and seeming the very citadel of the Genius of the + Region, rose high above the others, showing his glimmering and scathed + peak to the distance of many miles. + </p> + <p> + The followers of Montrose were men not to be daunted by the sublime, yet + terrible prospect before them. Many of them were of that ancient race of + Highlanders, who not only willingly made their couch in the snow, but + considered it as effeminate luxury to use a snowball for a pillow. Plunder + and revenge lay beyond the frozen mountains which they beheld, and they + did not permit themselves to be daunted by the difficulty of traversing + them. Montrose did not allow their spirits time to subside. He ordered the + pipes to play in the van the ancient pibroch entitled, “HOGGIL NAM BO,” + etc. (that is, We come through snow-drift to drive the prey), the + shrilling sounds of which had often struck the vales of the Lennox with + terror. [It is the family-march of the M’Farlanes, a warlike and predatory + clan, who inhabited the western banks of Loch-Lomond. See WAVERLY, Note + XV.] The troops advanced with the nimble alacrity of mountaineers, and + were soon involved in the dangerous pass, through which Ranald acted as + their guide, going before them with a select party, to track out the way. + </p> + <p> + The power of man at no time appears more contemptible than when it is + placed in contrast with scenes of natural terror and dignity. The + victorious army of Montrose, whose exploits had struck terror into all + Scotland, when ascending up this terrific pass, seemed a contemptible + handful of stragglers, in the act of being devoured by the jaws of the + mountain, which appeared ready to close upon them. Even Montrose half + repented the boldness of his attempt, as he looked down from the summit of + the first eminence which he attained, upon the scattered condition of his + small army. The difficulty of getting forward was so great, that + considerable gaps began to occur in the line of march, and the distance + between the van, centre, and rear, was each moment increased in a degree + equally incommodious and dangerous. It was with great apprehension that + Montrose looked upon every point of advantage which the hill afforded, in + dread it might be found occupied by an enemy prepared for defence; and he + often afterwards was heard to express his conviction, that had the passes + of Strath-Fillan been defended by two hundred resolute men, not only would + his progress have been effectually stopped, but his army must have been in + danger of being totally cut off. Security, however, the bane of many a + strong country and many a fortress, betrayed, on this occasion, the + district of Argyle to his enemies. The invaders had only to contend with + the natural difficulties of the path, and with the snow, which, + fortunately, had not fallen in any great quantity. The army no sooner + reached the summit of the ridge of hills dividing Argyleshire from the + district of Breadalbane, than they rushed down upon the devoted vales + beneath them with a fury sufficiently expressive of the motives which had + dictated a movement so difficult and hazardous. + </p> + <p> + Montrose divided his army into three bodies, in order to produce a wider + and more extensive terror, one of which was commanded by the Captain of + Clan Ranald, one intrusted to the leading of Colkitto, and the third + remained under his own direction. He was thus enabled to penetrate the + country of Argyle at three different points. Resistance there was none. + The flight of the shepherds from the hills had first announced in the + peopled districts this formidable irruption, and wherever the clansmen + were summoned out, they were killed, disarmed, and dispersed, by an enemy + who had anticipated their motions. Major Dalgetty, who had been sent + forward against Inverary with the few horse of the army that were fit for + service, managed his matters so well, that he had very nearly surprised + Argyle, as he expressed it, INTER POCULA; and it was only a rapid flight + by water which saved that chief from death or captivity. But the + punishment which Argyle himself escaped fell heavily upon his country and + clan, and the ravages committed by Montrose on that devoted land, although + too consistent with the genius of the country and times, have been + repeatedly and justly quoted as a blot on his actions and character. + </p> + <p> + Argyle in the meantime had fled to Edinburgh, to lay his complaints before + the Convention of Estates. To meet the exigence of the moment, a + considerable army was raised under General Baillie, a Presbyterian officer + of skill and fidelity, with whom was joined in command the celebrated Sir + John Urrie, a soldier of fortune like Dalgetty, who had already changed + sides twice during the Civil War, and was destined to turn his coat a + third time before it was ended. Argyle also, burning with indignation, + proceeded to levy his own numerous forces, in order to avenge himself of + his feudal enemy. He established his head-quarters at Dunbarton, where he + was soon joined by a considerable force, consisting chiefly of his own + clansmen and dependants. Being there joined by Baillie and Urrie, with a + very considerable army of regular forces, he prepared to march into + Argyleshire, and chastise the invader of his paternal territories. + </p> + <p> + But Montrose, while these two formidable armies were forming a junction, + had been recalled from that ravaged country by the approach of a third, + collected in the north under the Earl of Seaforth, who, after some + hesitation, having embraced the side of the Covenanters, had now, with the + assistance of the veteran garrison of Inverness, formed a considerable + army, with which he threatened Montrose from Inverness-shire. Enclosed in + a wasted and unfriendly country, and menaced on each side by advancing + enemies of superior force, it might have been supposed that Montrose’s + destruction was certain. But these were precisely the circumstances under + which the active and enterprising genius of the Great Marquis was + calculated to excite the wonder and admiration of his friends, the + astonishment and terror of his enemies. As if by magic, he collected his + scattered forces from the wasteful occupation in which they had been + engaged; and scarce were they again united, ere Argyle and his associate + generals were informed, that the royalists, having suddenly disappeared + from Argyleshire, had retreated northwards among the dusky and + impenetrable mountains of Lochaber. + </p> + <p> + The sagacity of the generals opposed to Montrose immediately conjectured, + that it was the purpose of their active antagonist to fight with, and, if + possible, to destroy Seaforth, ere they could come to his assistance. This + occasioned a corresponding change in their operations. Leaving this + chieftain to make the best defence he could, Urrie and Baillie again + separated their forces from those of Argyle; and, having chiefly horse and + Lowland troops under their command, they kept the southern side of the + Grampian ridge, moving along eastward into the county of Angus, resolving + from thence to proceed into Aberdeenshire, in order to intercept Montrose, + if he should attempt to escape in that direction. + </p> + <p> + Argyle, with his own levies and other troops, undertook to follow + Montrose’s march; so that, in case he should come to action either with + Seaforth, or with Baillie and Urrie, he might be placed between two fires + by this third army, which, at a secure distance, was to hang upon his + rear. + </p> + <p> + For this purpose, Argyle once more moved towards Inverary, having an + opportunity, at every step, to deplore the severities which the hostile + clans had exercised on his dependants and country. Whatever noble + qualities the Highlanders possessed, and they had many, clemency in + treating a hostile country was not of the number; but even the ravages of + hostile troops combined to swell the number of Argyle’s followers. It is + still a Highland proverb, He whose house is burnt must become a soldier; + and hundreds of the inhabitants of these unfortunate valleys had now no + means of maintenance, save by exercising upon others the severities they + had themselves sustained, and no future prospect of happiness, excepting + in the gratification of revenge. His bands were, therefore, augmented by + the very circumstances which had desolated his country, and Argyle soon + found himself at the head of three thousand determined men, distinguished + for activity and courage, and commanded by gentlemen of his own name, who + yielded to none in those qualities. Under himself, he conferred the + principal command upon Sir Duncan Campbell of Ardenvohr, and another Sir + Duncan Campbell of Auchenbreck, [This last character is historical] an + experienced and veteran soldier, whom he had recalled from the wars of + Ireland for this purpose. The cold spirit of Argyle himself, however, + clogged the military councils of his more intrepid assistants; and it was + resolved, notwithstanding their increased force, to observe the same plan + of operations, and to follow Montrose cautiously, in whatever direction he + should march, avoiding an engagement until an opportunity should occur of + falling upon his rear, while he should be engaged with another enemy in + front. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Piobracht au Donuil-dhu, + Piobrachet au Donuil, + Piobrachet agus S’breittach + Feacht an Innerlochy. + + The war-tune of Donald the Black, + The war-tune of Black Donald, + The pipes and the banner + Are up in the rendezvous of Inverlochy. +</pre> + <p> + The military road connecting the chains of forts, as it is called, and + running in the general line of the present Caledonian Canal, has now + completely opened the great glen, or chasm, extending almost across the + whole island, once doubtless filled by the sea, and still affording basins + for that long line of lakes, by means of which modern art has united the + German and Atlantic Oceans. The paths or tracks by which the natives + traversed this extensive valley, were, in 1645-6, in the same situation as + when they awaked the strain of an Irish engineer officer, who had been + employed in converting them into practicable military roads, and whose + eulogium begins, and, for aught I know, ends, as follows: + </p> + <p> + Had you seen but these roads before they were made, You would have held up + your hands and bless’d General Wade. + </p> + <p> + But, bad as the ordinary paths were, Montrose avoided them, and led his + army, like a herd of wild deer, from mountain to mountain, and from forest + to forest, where his enemies could learn nothing of his motions, while he + acquired the most perfect knowledge respecting theirs from the friendly + clans of Cameron and M’Donnell, whose mountainous districts he now + traversed. Strict orders had been given that Argyle’s advance should be + watched, and that all intelligence respecting his motions should be + communicated instantly to the General himself. + </p> + <p> + It was a moonlight night, and Montrose, worn out by the fatigues of the + day, was laid down to sleep in a miserable shieling. He had only slumbered + two hours, when some one touched his shoulder. He looked up, and, by the + stately form and deep voice, easily recognised the Chief of the Camerons. + </p> + <p> + “I have news for you,” said that leader, “which is worth while to arise + and listen to.” + </p> + <p> + “M’Ilduy [Mhich-Connel Dhu, the descendant of Black Donald.] can bring no + other,” said Montrose, addressing the Chief by his patronymic title—“are + they good or bad?” + </p> + <p> + “As you may take them,” said the Chieftain. + </p> + <p> + “Are they certain?” demanded Montrose. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” answered M’Ilduy, “or another messenger should have brought them. + Know that, tired with the task imposed upon me of accompanying that + unhappy Dalgetty and his handful of horse, who detained me for hours on + the march at the pace of a crippled badger, I made a stretch of four miles + with six of my people in the direction of Inverlochy, and there met with + Ian of Glenroy, who had been out for intelligence. Argyle is moving upon + Inverlochy with three thousand chosen men, commanded by the flower of the + sons of Diarmid.—These are my news—they are certain—it + is for you to construe their purport.” + </p> + <p> + “Their purport must be good,” answered Montrose, readily and cheerfully; + “the voice of M’Ilduy is ever pleasant in the ears of Montrose, and most + pleasant when it speaks of some brave enterprise at hand—What are + our musters?” + </p> + <p> + He then called for light, and easily ascertained that a great part of his + followers having, as usual, dispersed to secure their booty, he had not + with him above twelve or fourteen hundred men. + </p> + <p> + “Not much above a third,” said Montrose, pausing, “of Argyle’s force, and + Highlanders opposed to Highlanders.—With the blessing of God upon + the royal cause, I would not hesitate were the odds but one to two.” + </p> + <p> + “Then do not hesitate,” said Cameron; “for when your trumpets shall sound + to attack M’Callum More, not a man of these glens will remain deaf to the + summons. Glengarry—Keppoch—I myself—would destroy, with + fire and sword, the wretch who should remain behind under any pretence + whatsoever. To-morrow, or the next day, shall be a day of battle to all + who bear the name of M’Donnell or Cameron, whatever be the event.” + </p> + <p> + “It is gallantly said, my noble friend,” said Montrose, grasping his hand, + “and I were worse than a coward did I not do justice to such followers, by + entertaining the most indubitable hopes of success. We will turn back on + this M’Callum More, who follows us like a raven to devour the relics of + our army, should we meet braver men who may be able to break its strength! + Let the Chiefs and leaders be called together as quickly as possible; and + you, who have brought us the first news of this joyful event,—for + such it shall be,—you, M’Ilduy, shall bring it to a joyful issue, by + guiding us the best and nearest road against our enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “That will I willingly do,” said M’Ilduy; “if I have shown you paths by + which to retreat through these dusky wilds, with far more readiness will I + teach you how to advance against your foe.” + </p> + <p> + A general bustle now prevailed, and the leaders were everywhere startled + from the rude couches on which they had sought temporary repose. + </p> + <p> + “I never thought,” said Major Dalgetty, when summoned up from a handful of + rugged heather roots, “to have parted from a bed as hard as a stable-broom + with such bad will; but, indubitably, having but one man of military + experience in his army, his Excellency the Marquis may be vindicated in + putting him upon hard duty.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he repaired to the council, where, notwithstanding his + pedantry, Montrose seemed always to listen to him with considerable + attention; partly because the Major really possessed military knowledge + and experience, and often made suggestions which were found of advantage, + and partly because it relieved the General from the necessity of deferring + entirely to the opinion of the Highland Chiefs, and gave him additional + ground for disputing it when it was not agreeable to his own. On the + present occasion, Dalgetty joyfully acquiesced in the proposal of marching + back and confronting Argyle, which he compared to the valiant resolution + of the great Gustavus, who moved against the Duke of Bavaria, and enriched + his troops by the plunder of that fertile country, although menaced from + the northward by the large army which Wallenstein had assembled in + Bohemia. + </p> + <p> + The Chiefs of Glengarry, Keppoch, and Lochiel, whose clans, equal in + courage and military fame to any in the Highlands, lay within the + neighbourhood of the scene of action, dispatched the fiery cross through + their vassals, to summon every one who could bear arms to meet the King’s + lieutenant, and to join the standards of their respective Chiefs, as they + marched towards Inverlochy. As the order was emphatically given, it was + speedily and willingly obeyed. Their natural love of war, their zeal for + the royal cause,—for they viewed the King in the light of a chief + whom his clansmen had deserted,—as well as their implicit obedience + to their own patriarch, drew in to Montrose’s army not only all in the + neighbourhood who were able to bear arms, but some who, in age at least, + might have been esteemed past the use of them. During the next day’s + march, which, being directed straight through the mountains of Lochaber, + was unsuspected by the enemy, his forces were augmented by handfuls of men + issuing from each glen, and ranging themselves under the banners of their + respective Chiefs. This was a circumstance highly inspiriting to the rest + of the army, who, by the time they approached the enemy, found their + strength increased considerably more than one-fourth, as had been + prophesied by the valiant leader of the Camerons. + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img src="images/0651m.jpg" style="width:100%;" alt="0651m " /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0651.jpg" style="width:100%;" ><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + While Montrose executed this counter-march, Argyle had, at the head of his + gallant army, advanced up the southern side of Loch-Eil, and reached the + river Lochy, which combines that lake with Loch-Lochy. The ancient Castle + of Inverlochy, once, as it is said, a royal fortress, and still, although + dismantled, a place of some strength and consideration, offered convenient + head-quarters, and there was ample room for Argyle’s army to encamp around + him in the valley, where the Lochy joins Loch-Eil. Several barges had + attended, loaded with provisions, so that they were in every respect as + well accommodated as such an army wished or expected to be. Argyle, in + council with Auchenbreck and Ardenvohr, expressed his full confidence that + Montrose was now on the brink of destruction; that his troops must + gradually diminish as he moved eastward through such uncouth paths; that + if he went westward, he must encounter Urrie and Baillie; if northward, + fall into the hands of Seaforth; or should he choose any halting-place, he + would expose himself to be attacked by three armies at once. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot rejoice in the prospect, my lord,” said Auchebreck, “that James + Grahame will be crushed with little assistance of ours. He has left a + heavy account in Argyleshire against him, and I long to reckon with him + drop of blood for drop of blood. I love not the payment of such debts by + third hands.” + </p> + <p> + “You are too scrupulous,” said Argyle; “what signifies it by whose hands + the blood of the Grahames is spilt? It is time that of the sons of Diarmid + should cease to flow.—What say you, Ardenvohr?” + </p> + <p> + “I say, my lord,” replied Sir Duncan, “that I think Auchenbreck will be + gratified, and will himself have a personal opportunity of settling + accounts with Montrose for his depredations. Reports have reached our + outposts that the Camerons are assembling their full strength on the + skirts of Ben-Nevis; this must be to join the advance of Montrose, and not + to cover his retreat.” + </p> + <p> + “It must be some scheme of harassing and depredation,” said Argyle, + “devised by the inveterate malignity of M’Ilduy, which he terms loyalty. + They can intend no more than an attack on our outposts, or some annoyance + to to-morrow’s march.” + </p> + <p> + “I have sent out scouts,” said Sir Duncan, “in every direction, to procure + intelligence; and we must soon hear whether they really do assemble any + force, upon what point, or with what purpose.” + </p> + <p> + It was late ere any tidings were received; but when the moon had arisen, a + considerable bustle in the camp, and a noise immediately after heard in + the castle, announced the arrival of important intelligence. Of the scouts + first dispersed by Ardenvohr, some had returned without being able to + collect anything, save uncertain rumours concerning movements in the + country of the Camerons. It seemed as if the skirts of Ben-Nevis were + sending forth those unaccountable and portentous sounds with which they + sometimes announce the near approach of a storm. Others, whose zeal + carried them farther upon their mission, were entrapped and slain, or made + prisoners, by the inhabitants of the fastnesses into which they + endeavoured to penetrate. At length, on the rapid advance of Montrose’s + army, his advanced guard and the outposts of Argyle became aware of each + other’s presence, and after exchanging a few musket-shots and arrows, fell + back to their respective main bodies, to convey intelligence and receive + orders. + </p> + <p> + Sir Duncan Campbell, and Auchenbreck, instantly threw themselves on + horseback, in order to visit the state of the outposts; and Argyle + maintained his character of commander-in-chief with reputation, by making + a respectable arrangement of his forces in the plain, as it was evident + that they might now expect a night alarm, or an attack in the morning at + farthest. Montrose had kept his forces so cautiously within the defiles of + the mountain, that no effort which Auchenbreck or Ardenvohr thought it + prudent to attempt, could ascertain his probable strength. They were + aware, however, that, at the utmost computation, it must be inferior to + their own, and they returned to Argyle to inform him of the amount of + their observations; but that nobleman refused to believe that Montrose + could be in presence himself. He said, “It was a madness, of which even + James Grahame, in his height of presumptuous frenzy, was incapable; and he + doubted not that their march was only impeded by their ancient enemies, + Glencoe, Keppoch, and Glengarry; and perhaps M’Vourigh, with his + M’Phersons, might have assembled a force, which he knew must be greatly + inferior in numbers to his own, and whom, therefore, he doubted not to + disperse by force, or by terms of capitulation.” + </p> + <p> + The spirit of Argyle’s followers was high, breathing vengeance for the + disasters which their country had so lately undergone; and the night + passed in anxious hopes that the morning might dawn upon their vengeance. + The outposts of either army kept a careful watch, and the soldiers of + Argyle slept in the order of battle which they were next day to occupy. + </p> + <p> + A pale dawn had scarce begun to tinge the tops of these immense mountains, + when the leaders of both armies prepared for the business of the day. It + was the second of February, 1645-6. The clansmen of Argyle were arranged + in two lines, not far from the angle between the river and the lake, and + made an appearance equally resolute and formidable. Auchenbreck would + willingly have commenced the battle by an attack on the outposts of the + enemy, but Argyle, with more cautious policy, preferred receiving to + making the onset. Signals were soon heard, that they would not long wait + for it in vain. The Campbells could distinguish, in the gorge of the + mountains, the war-tunes of various clans as they advanced to the onset. + That of the Camerons, which bears the ominous words, addressed to the + wolves and ravens, “Come to me, and I will give you flesh,” was loudly + re-echoed from their native glens. In the language of the Highland bards, + the war voice of Glengarry was not silent; and the gathering tunes of + other tribes could be plainly distinguished, as they successively came up + to the extremity of the passes from which they were to descend into the + plain. + </p> + <p> + “You see,” said Argyle to his kinsmen, “it is as I said, we have only to + deal with our neighbours; James Grahame has not ventured to show us his + banner.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment there resounded from the gorge of the pass a lively + flourish of trumpets, in that note with which it was the ancient Scottish + fashion to salute the royal standard. + </p> + <p> + “You may hear, my lord, from yonder signal,” said Sir Duncan Campbell, + “that he who pretends to be the King’s Lieutenant, must be in person among + these men.” + </p> + <p> + “And has probably horse with him,” said Auchenbreck, “which I could not + have anticipated. But shall we look pale for that, my lord, when we have + foes to fight, and wrongs to revenge?” + </p> + <p> + Argyle was silent, and looked upon his arm, which hung in a sash, owing to + a fall which he had sustained in a preceding march. + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” interrupted Ardenvohr, eagerly, “my Lord of Argyle, you are + disabled from using either sword or pistol; you must retire on board the + galleys—your life is precious to us as a head—your hand cannot + be useful to us as a soldier.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Argyle, pride contending with irresolution, “it shall never be + said that I fled before Montrose; if I cannot fight, I will at least die + in the midst of my children.” + </p> + <p> + Several other principal Chiefs of the Campbells, with one voice, conjured + and obtested their Chieftain to leave them for that day to the leading of + Ardenvohr and Auchenbreck, and to behold the conflict from a distance and + in safety.—We dare not stigmatize Argyle with poltroonery; for, + though his life was marked by no action of bravery, yet he behaved with so + much composure and dignity in the final and closing scene, that his + conduct upon the present and similar occasions, should be rather imputed + to indecision than to want of courage. But when the small still voice + within a man’s own breast, which tells him that his life is of consequence + to himself, is seconded by that of numbers around him, who assure him that + it is of equal advantage to the public, history affords many examples of + men more habitually daring than Argyle, who have consulted + self-preservation when the temptations to it were so powerfully increased. + </p> + <p> + “See him on board, if you will, Sir Duncan,” said Auchenbreck to his + kinsman; “It must be my duty to prevent this spirit from spreading farther + among us.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he threw himself among the ranks, entreating, commanding, and + conjuring the soldiers, to remember their ancient fame and their present + superiority; the wrongs they had to revenge, if successful, and the fate + they had to dread, if vanquished; and imparting to every bosom a portion + of the fire which glowed in his own. Slowly, meanwhile, and apparently + with reluctance, Argyle suffered himself to be forced by his officious + kinsmen to the verge of the lake, and was transported on board of a + galley, from the deck of which he surveyed with more safety than credit + the scene which ensued. + </p> + <p> + Sir Duncan Campbell of Ardenvohr, notwithstanding the urgency of the + occasion, stood with his eyes riveted on the boat which bore his Chieftain + from the field of battle. There were feelings in his bosom which could not + be expressed; for the character of a Chief was that of a father, and the + heart of a clansman durst not dwell upon his failings with critical + severity as upon those of other men. Argyle, too, harsh and severe to + others, was generous and liberal among his kinsmen, and the noble heart + of, Ardenvohr was wrung with bitter anguish, when he reflected to what + interpretation his present conduct might subject him. + </p> + <p> + “It is better it should be so,” said he to himself, devouring his own + emotion; “but—of his line of a hundred sires, I know not one who + would have retired while the banner of Diarmid waved in the wind, in the + face of its most inveterate foes!” + </p> + <p> + A loud shout now compelled him to turn, and to hasten with all dispatch to + his post, which was on the right flank of Argyle’s little army. + </p> + <p> + The retreat of Argyle had not passed unobserved by his watchful enemy, + who, occupying the superior ground, could mark every circumstance which + passed below. The movement of three or four horsemen to the rear showed + that those who retreated were men of rank. + </p> + <p> + “They are going,” said Dalgetty, “to put their horses out of danger, like + prudent cavaliers. Yonder goes Sir Duncan Campbell, riding a brown bay + gelding, which I had marked for my own second charger.” + </p> + <p> + “You are wrong, Major,” said Montrose, with a bitter smile, “they are + saving their precious Chief—Give the signal for assault instantly—send + the word through the ranks.—Gentlemen, noble Chiefs, Glengarry, + Keppoch, M’Vourigh, upon them instantly!—Ride to M’Ilduy, Major + Dalgetty, and tell him to charge as he loves Lochaber—return and + bring our handful of horse to my standard. They shall be placed with the + Irish as a reserve.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + As meets a rock a thousand waves, so Inisfail met Lochlin. + —OSSIAN. +</pre> + <p> + The trumpets and bagpipes, those clamorous harbingers of blood and death, + at once united in the signal for onset, which was replied to by the cry of + more than two thousand warriors, and the echoes of the mountain glens + behind them. Divided into three bodies, or columns, the Highland followers + of Montrose poured from the defiles which had hitherto concealed them from + their enemies, and rushed with the utmost determination upon the + Campbells, who waited their charge with the greatest firmness. Behind + these charging columns marched in line the Irish, under Colkitto, intended + to form the reserve. With them was the royal standard, and Montrose + himself; and on the flanks were about fifty horse, under Dalgetty, which + by wonderful exertions had been kept in some sort fit for service. + </p> + <p> + The right column of Royalists was led by Glengarry, the left by Lochiel, + and the centre by the Earl of Menteith, who preferred fighting on foot in + a Highland dress to remaining with the cavalry. + </p> + <p> + The Highlanders poured on with the proverbial fury of their country, + firing their guns, and discharging their arrows, at a little distance from + the enemy, who received the assault with the most determined gallantry. + Better provided with musketry than their enemies, stationary also, and + therefore taking the more decisive aim, the fire of Argyle’s followers was + more destructive than that which they sustained. The royal clans, + perceiving this, rushed to close quarters, and succeeded on two points in + throwing their enemies into disorder. With regular troops this must have + achieved a victory; but here Highlanders were opposed to Highlanders, and + the nature of the weapons, as well as the agility of those who wielded + them, was equal on both sides. + </p> + <p> + Their strife was accordingly desperate; and the clash of the swords and + axes, as they encountered each other, or rung upon the targets, was + mingled with the short, wild, animating shrieks with which Highlanders + accompany the battle, the dance, or indeed violent exertion of any kind. + Many of the foes opposed were personally acquainted, and sought to match + themselves with each other from motives of hatred, or a more generous + emulation of valour. Neither party would retreat an inch, while the place + of those who fell (and they fell fast on both sides) was eagerly supplied + by others, who thronged to the front of danger. A steam, like that which + arises from a seething cauldron, rose into the thin, cold, frosty air, and + hovered above the combatants. + </p> + <p> + So stood the fight on the right and the centre, with no immediate + consequence, except mutual wounds and death. + </p> + <p> + On the right of the Campbells, the Knight of Ardenvohr obtained some + advantage, through his military skill and by strength of numbers. He had + moved forward obliquely the extreme flank of his line at the instant the + Royalists were about to close, so that they sustained a fire at once on + front and in flank, and, despite the utmost efforts of their leader, were + thrown into some confusion. At this instant, Sir Duncan Campbell gave the + word to charge, and thus unexpectedly made the attack at the very moment + he seemed about to receive it. Such a change of circumstances is always + discouraging, and often fatal. But the disorder was remedied by the + advance of the Irish reserve, whose heavy and sustained fire compelled the + Knight of Ardenvohr to forego his advantage, and content himself with + repulsing the enemy. The Marquis of Montrose, in the meanwhile, availing + himself of some scattered birch trees, as well as of the smoke produced by + the close fire of the Irish musketry, which concealed the operation, + called upon Dalgetty to follow him with the horse, and wheeling round so + as to gain the right flank and even the rear of the enemy, he commanded + his six trumpets to sound the charge. The clang of the cavalry trumpets, + and the noise of the galloping of the horse, produced an effect upon + Argyle’s right wing which no other sounds could have impressed them with. + The mountaineers of that period had a superstitious dread of the + war-horse, like that entertained by the Peruvians, and had many strange + ideas respecting the manner in which that animal was trained to combat. + When, therefore, they found their ranks unexpectedly broken, and that the + objects of their greatest terror were suddenly in the midst of them, the + panic, in spite of Sir Duncan’s attempts to stop it, became universal. + Indeed, the figure of Major Dalgetty alone, sheathed in impenetrable + armour, and making his horse caracole and bound, so as to give weight to + every blow which he struck, would have been a novelty in itself sufficient + to terrify those who had never seen anything more nearly resembling such a + cavalier, than a SHELTY waddling under a Highlander far bigger than + itself. The repulsed Royalists returned to the charge; the Irish, keeping + their ranks, maintained a fire equally close and destructive. There was no + sustaining the fight longer. Argyle’s followers began to break and fly, + most towards the lake, the remainder in different directions. The defeat + of the right wing, of itself decisive, was rendered irreparable by the + death of Auchenbreck, who fell while endeavouring to restore order. + </p> + <p> + The Knight of Ardenvohr, with two or three hundred men, all gentlemen of + descent and distinguished gallantry,—for the Campbells are supposed + to have had more gentlemen in their ranks than any of the Highland clans, + endeavoured, with unavailing heroism, to cover the tumultuary retreat of + the common file. Their resolution only proved fatal to themselves, as they + were charged again and again by fresh adversaries, and forced to separate + from each other, until at length their aim seemed only to be to purchase + an honourable death by resisting to the very last. + </p> + <p> + “Good quarter, Sir Duncan,” called out Major Dalgetty, when he discovered + his late host, with one or two others, defending himself against several + Highlanders; and, to enforce his offer, he rode up to him with his sword + uplifted. Sir Duncan’s reply was the discharge of a reserved pistol, which + took effect not on the person of the rider, but on that of his gallant + horse, which, shot through the heart, fell dead under him. Ranald MacEagh, + who was one of those who had been pressing Sir Duncan hard, took the + opportunity to cut him down with his broadsword, as he turned from him in + the act of firing the pistol. + </p> + <p> + Allan M’Aulay came up at this moment. They were, excepting Ranald, + followers of his brother who were engaged on that part of the field, + “Villains!” he said, “which of you has dared to do this, when it was my + positive order that the Knight of Ardenvohr should be taken alive?” + </p> + <p> + Half-a-dozen of busy hands, which were emulously employed in plundering + the fallen knight, whose arms and accoutrements were of a magnificence + befitting his quality, instantly forbore the occupation, and half the + number of voices exculpated themselves, by laying the blame on the + Skyeman, as they called Ranald MacEagh. + </p> + <p> + “Dog of an Islander!” said Allan, forgetting, in his wrath, their + prophetic brotherhood, “follow the chase, and harm him no farther, unless + you mean to die by my hand.” They were at this moment left almost alone; + for Allan’s threats had forced his own clan from the spot, and all around + had pressed onwards toward the lake, carrying before them noise, terror, + and confusion, and leaving behind only the dead and dying. The moment was + tempting to MacEagh’s vengeful spirit.—“That I should die by your + hand, red as it is with the blood of my kindred,” said he, answering the + threat of Allan in a tone as menacing as his own, “is not more likely than + that you should fall by mine.” With that, he struck at M’Aulay with such + unexpected readiness, that he had scarce time to intercept the blow with + his target. + </p> + <p> + “Villain!” said Allan, in astonishment, “what means this?” + </p> + <p> + “I am Ranald of the Mist!” answered the Islesman, repeating the blow; and + with that word, they engaged in close and furious conflict. It seemed to + be decreed, that in Allan M’Aulay had arisen the avenger of his mother’s + wrongs upon this wild tribe, as was proved by the issue of the present, as + well as of former combats. After exchanging a few blows, Ranald MacEagh + was prostrated by a deep wound on the skull; and M’Aulay, setting his foot + on him, was about to pass the broadsword through his body, when the point + of the weapon was struck up by a third party, who suddenly interposed. + This was no other than Major Dalgetty, who, stunned by the fall, and + encumbered by the dead body of his horse, had now recovered his legs and + his understanding. “Hold up your sword,” said he to M’Aulay, “and + prejudice this person no farther, in respect that he is here in my + safeconduct, and in his Excellency’s service; and in regard that no + honourable cavalier is at liberty, by the law martial, to avenge his own + private injuries, FLAGRANTE BELLO, MULTO MAJUS FLAGRANTE PRAELIO.” + </p> + <p> + “Fool!” said Allan, “stand aside, and dare not to come between the tiger + and his prey!” + </p> + <p> + But, far from quitting his point, Dalgetty stept across the fallen body of + MacEagh, and gave Allan to understand, that if he called himself a tiger, + he was likely, at present, to find a lion in his path. There required no + more than the gesture and tone of defiance to turn the whole rage of the + military Seer against the person who was opposing the course of his + vengeance, and blows were instantly exchanged without farther ceremony. + </p> + <p> + The strife betwixt Allan and MacEagh had been unnoticed by the stragglers + around, for the person of the latter was known to few of Montrose’s + followers; but the scuffle betwixt Dalgetty and him, both so well known, + attracted instant attention; and fortunately, among others, that of + Montrose himself, who had come for the purpose of gathering together his + small body of horse, and following the pursuit down Loch-Eil. Aware of the + fatal consequences of dissension in his little army, he pushed his horse + up to the spot, and seeing MacEagh on the ground, and Dalgetty in the + attitude of protecting him against M’Aulay, his quick apprehension + instantly caught the cause of quarrel, and as instantly devised means to + stop it. “For shame,” he said, “gentlemen cavaliers, brawling together in + so glorious a field of victory!—Are you mad? Or are you intoxicated + with the glory which you have both this day gained?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not my fault, so please your Excellency,” said Dalgetty. “I have + been known a BONUS SOCIUS, A BON CAMARADO, in all the services of Europe; + but he that touches a man under my safeguard—” + </p> + <p> + “And he,” said Allan, speaking at the same time, “who dares to bar the + course of my just vengeance—” + </p> + <p> + “For shame, gentlemen!” again repeated Montrose; “I have other business + for you both,—business of deeper importance than any private + quarrel, which you may easily find a more fitting time to settle. For you, + Major Dalgetty, kneel down.” + </p> + <p> + “Kneel!” said Dalgetty; “I have not learned to obey that word of command, + saving when it is given from the pulpit. In the Swedish discipline, the + front rank do indeed kneel, but only when the regiment is drawn up six + file deep.” + </p> + <p> + “Nevertheless,” repeated Montrose,—“kneel down, in the name of King + Charles and of his representative.” + </p> + <p> + When Dalgetty reluctantly obeyed, Montrose struck him lightly on the neck + with the flat of his sword, saying,—“In reward of the gallant + service of this day, and in the name and authority of our Sovereign, King + Charles, I dub thee knight; be brave, loyal, and fortunate. And now, Sir + Dugald Dalgetty, to your duty. Collect what horsemen you can, and pursue + such of the enemy as are flying down the side of the lake. Do not disperse + your force, nor venture too far; but take heed to prevent their rallying, + which very little exertion may do. Mount, then, Sir Dugald, and do your + duty.” + </p> + <p> + “But what shall I mount?” said the new-made chevalier. “Poor Gustavus + sleeps in the bed of honour, like his immortal namesake! and I am made a + knight, a rider, as the High Dutch have it, just when I have not a horse + left to ride upon.” [In German, as in Latin, the original meaning of the + word Ritter, corresponding to Eques, is merely a horseman.] + </p> + <p> + “That shall not be said,” answered Montrose, dismounting; “I make you a + present of my own, which has been thought a good one; only, I pray you, + resume the duty you discharge so well.” + </p> + <p> + With many acknowledgments, Sir Dugald mounted the steed so liberally + bestowed upon him; and only beseeching his Excellency to remember that + MacEagh was under his safe-conduct, immediately began to execute the + orders assigned to him, with great zeal and alacrity. + </p> + <p> + “And you, Allan M’Aulay,” said Montrose, addressing the Highlander, who, + leaning his sword-point on the ground, had regarded the ceremony of his + antagonist’s knighthood with a sneer of sullen scorn,—“you, who are + superior to the ordinary men led by the paltry motives of plunder, and + pay, and personal distinction,—you, whose deep knowledge renders you + so valuable a counsellor,—is it YOU whom I find striving with a man + like Dalgetty, for the privilege of trampling the remains of life out of + so contemptible an enemy as lies there? Come, my friend, I have other work + for you. This victory, skilfully improved, shall win Seaforth to our + party. It is not disloyalty, but despair of the good cause, that has + induced him to take arms against us. These arms, in this moment of better + augury, he may be brought to unite with ours. I shall send my gallant + friend, Colonel Hay, to him, from this very field of battle, but he must + be united in commission with a Highland gentleman of rank, befitting that + of Seaforth, and of talents and of influence such as may make an + impression upon him. You are not only in every respect the fittest for + this most important mission, but, having no immediate command, your + presence may be more easily spared than that of a Chief whose following is + in the field. You know every pass and glen in the Highlands, as well as + the manners and customs of every tribe. Go therefore to Hay, on the right + wing; he has instructions, and expects you. You will find him with + Glenmorrison’s men; be his guide, his interpreter, and his colleague.” + </p> + <p> + Allan M’Aulay bent on the Marquis a dark and penetrating glance, as if to + ascertain whether this sudden mission was not conferred for some latent + and unexplained purpose. But Montrose, skilful in searching the motives of + others, was an equal adept in concealing his own. He considered it as of + the last consequence, in this moment of enthusiasm and exalted passion, to + remove Allan from the camp for a few days, that he might provide, as his + honour required, for the safety of those who had acted as his guides, when + he trusted the Seer’s quarrel with Dalgetty might be easily made up. + Allan, at parting, only recommended to the Marquis the care of Sir Duncan + Campbell, whom Montrose instantly directed to be conveyed to a place of + safety. He took the same precaution for MacEagh, committing the latter, + however, to a party of the Irish, with directions that he should be taken + care of, but that no Highlander, of any clan, should have access to him. + </p> + <p> + The Marquis then mounted a led horse, which was held by one of his + attendants, and rode on to view the scene of his victory, which was more + decisive than even his ardent hopes had anticipated. Of Argyle’s gallant + army of three thousand men, fully one-half fell in the battle, or in the + flight. They had been chiefly driven back upon that part of the plain + where the river forms an angle with the lake, so that there was no free + opening either for retreat or escape. Several hundreds were forced into + the lake and drowned. Of the survivors, about one-half escaped by swimming + the river, or by an early flight along the left bank of the lake. The + remainder threw themselves into the old Castle of Inverlochy; but being + without either provisions or hopes of relief, they were obliged to + surrender, on condition of being suffered to return to their homes in + peace. Arms, ammunition, standards, and baggage, all became the prey of + the conquerors. + </p> + <p> + This was the greatest disaster that ever befell the race of Diarmid, as + the Campbells were called in the Highlands; it being generally remarked + that they were as fortunate in the issue of their undertakings, as they + were sagacious in planning, and courageous in executing them. Of the + number slain, nearly five hundred were dunniwassels, or gentlemen claiming + descent from known and respected houses. And, in the opinion of many of + the clan, even this heavy loss was exceeded by the disgrace arising from + the inglorious conduct of their Chief, whose galley weighed anchor when + the day was lost, and sailed down the lake with all the speed to which + sails and oars could impel her. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Faint the din of battle bray’d, + Distant down the hollow wind; + War and terror fled before, + Wounds and death remain’d behind.—PENROSE. +</pre> + <p> + Montrose’s splendid success over his powerful rival was not attained + without some loss, though not amounting to the tenth of what he inflicted. + The obstinate valour of the Campbells cost the lives of many brave men of + the opposite party; and more were wounded, the Chief of whom was the brave + young Earl of Menteith, who had commanded the centre. He was but slightly + touched, however, and made rather a graceful than a terrible appearance + when he presented to his general the standard of Argyle, which he had + taken from the standard-bearer with his own hand, and slain him in single + combat. Montrose dearly loved his noble kinsman, in whom there was + conspicuous a flash of the generous, romantic, disinterested chivalry of + the old heroic times, entirely different from the sordid, calculating, and + selfish character, which the practice of entertaining mercenary troops had + introduced into most parts of Europe, and of which degeneracy Scotland, + which furnished soldiers of fortune for the service of almost every + nation, had been contaminated with a more than usual share. Montrose, + whose native spirit was congenial, although experience had taught him how + to avail himself of the motives of others, used to Menteith neither the + language of praise nor of promise, but clasped him to his bosom as he + exclaimed, “My gallant kinsman!” And by this burst of heartfelt applause + was Menteith thrilled with a warmer glow of delight, than if his praises + had been recorded in a report of the action sent directly to the throne of + his sovereign. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” he said, “my lord, now seems to remain in which I can render + any assistance; permit me to look after a duty of humanity—the + Knight of Ardenvohr, as I am told, is our prisoner, and severely wounded.” + </p> + <p> + “And well he deserves to be so,” said Sir Dugald Dalgetty, who came up to + them at that moment with a prodigious addition of acquired importance, + “since he shot my good horse at the time that I was offering him + honourable quarter, which, I must needs say, was done more like an + ignorant Highland cateran, who has not sense enough to erect a sconce for + the protection of his old hurley-house of a castle, than like a soldier of + worth and quality.” + </p> + <p> + “Are we to condole with you then,” said Lord Menteith, “upon the loss of + the famed Gustavus?” + </p> + <p> + “Even so, my lord,” answered the soldier, with a deep sigh, “DIEM CLAUSIT + SUPREMUM, as we said at the Mareschal-College of Aberdeen. Better so than + be smothered like a cadger’s pony in some flow-moss, or snow-wreath, which + was like to be his fate if this winter campaign lasted longer. But it has + pleased his Excellency” (making an inclination to Montrose) “to supply his + place by the gift of a noble steed, whom I have taken the freedom to name + ‘LOYALTY’S REWARD,’ in memory of this celebrated occasion.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope,” said the Marquis, “you’ll find Loyalty’s Reward, since you call + him so, practised in all the duties of the field,—but I must just + hint to you, that at this time, in Scotland, loyalty is more frequently + rewarded with a halter than with a horse.” + </p> + <p> + “Ahem! your Excellency is pleased to be facetious. Loyalty’s Reward is as + perfect as Gustavus in all his exercises, and of a far finer figure. + Marry! his social qualities are less cultivated, in respect he has kept + till now inferior company.” + </p> + <p> + “Not meaning his Excellency the General, I hope,” said Lord Menteith. “For + shame, Sir Dugald!” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” answered the knight gravely, “I am incapable to mean anything + so utterly unbecoming. What I asseverate is, that his Excellency, having + the same intercourse with his horse during his exercise, that he hath with + his soldiers when training them, may form and break either to every feat + of war which he chooses to practise, and accordingly that this noble + charger is admirably managed. But as it is the intercourse of private life + that formeth the social character, so I do not apprehend that of the + single soldier to be much polished by the conversation of the corporal or + the sergeant, or that of Loyalty’s Reward to have been much dulcified, or + ameliorated, by the society of his Excellency’s grooms, who bestow more + oaths, and kicks, and thumps, than kindness or caresses, upon the animals + intrusted to their charge; whereby many a generous quadruped, rendered as + it were misanthropic, manifests during the rest of his life a greater + desire to kick and bite his master, than to love and to honour him.” + </p> + <p> + “Spoken like an oracle,” said Montrose. “Were there an academy for the + education of horses to be annexed to the Mareschal-College of Aberdeen, + Sir Dugald Dalgetty alone should fill the chair.” + </p> + <p> + “Because, being an ass,” said Menteith, aside to the General, “there would + be some distant relation between the professor and the students.” + </p> + <p> + “And now, with your Excellency’s permission,” said the new-made knight, “I + am going to pay my last visit to the remains of my old companion in arms.” + </p> + <p> + “Not with the purpose of going through the ceremonial of interment?” said + the Marquis, who did not know how far Sir Dugald’s enthusiasm might lead + him; “consider our brave fellows themselves will have but a hasty burial.” + </p> + <p> + “Your Excellency will pardon me,” said Dalgetty; “my purpose is less + romantic. I go to divide poor Gustavus’s legacy with the fowls of heaven, + leaving the flesh to them, and reserving to myself his hide; which, in + token of affectionate remembrance, I purpose to form into a cassock and + trowsers, after the Tartar fashion, to be worn under my armour, in respect + my nether garments are at present shamefully the worse of the wear.—Alas! + poor Gustavus, why didst thou not live at least one hour more, to have + borne the honoured weight of knighthood upon thy loins!” + </p> + <p> + He was now turning away, when the Marquis called after him,—“As you + are not likely to be anticipated in this act of kindness, Sir Dugald, to + your old friend and companion, I trust,” said the Marquis, “you will first + assist me, and our principal friends, to discuss some of Argyle’s good + cheer, of which we have found abundance in the Castle.” + </p> + <p> + “Most willingly, please your Excellency,” said Sir Dugald; “as meat and + mass never hinder work. Nor, indeed, am I afraid that the wolves or eagles + will begin an onslaught on Gustavus to-night, in regard there is so much + better cheer lying all around. But,” added he, “as I am to meet two + honourable knights of England, with others of the knightly degree in your + lordship’s army, I pray it may be explained to them, that now, and in + future, I claim precedence over them all, in respect of my rank as a + Banneret, dubbed in a field of stricken battle.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil confound him!” said Montrose, speaking aside; “he has contrived + to set the kiln on fire as fast as I put it out.—‘This is a point, + Sir Dugald,” said he, gravely addressing him, “which I shall reserve for + his Majesty’s express consideration; in my camp, all must be upon + equality, like the Knights of the Round Table; and take their places as + soldiers should, upon the principle of,—first come, first served.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I shall take care,” said Menteith, apart to the Marquis, “that Don + Dugald is not first in place to-day.—Sir Dugald,” added he, raising + his voice, “as you say your wardrobe is out of repair, had you not better + go to the enemy’s baggage yonder, over which there is a guard placed? I + saw them take out an excellent buff suit, embroidered in front in silk and + silver.” + </p> + <p> + “VOTO A DIOS! as the Spaniard says,” exclaimed the Major, “and some + beggarly gilly may get it while I stand prating here!” + </p> + <p> + The prospect of booty having at once driven out of his head both Gustavus + and the provant, he set spurs to Loyalty’s Reward, and rode off through + the field of battle. + </p> + <p> + “There goes the hound,” said Menteith, “breaking the face, and trampling + on the body, of many a better man than himself; and as eager on his sordid + spoil as a vulture that stoops upon carrion. Yet this man the world calls + a soldier—and you, my lord, select him as worthy of the honours of + chivalry, if such they can at this day be termed. You have made the collar + of knighthood the decoration of a mere bloodhound.” + </p> + <p> + “What could I do?” said Montrose. “I had no half-picked bones to give him, + and bribed in some manner he must be,—I cannot follow the chase + alone. Besides, the dog has good qualities.” + </p> + <p> + “If nature has given him such,” said Menteith, “habit has converted them + into feelings of intense selfishness. He may be punctilious concerning his + reputation, and brave in the execution of his duty, but it is only because + without these qualities he cannot rise in the service;—nay, his very + benevolence is selfish; he may defend his companion while he can keep his + feet, but the instant he is down, Sir Dugald will be as ready to ease him + of his purse, as he is to convert the skin of Gustavus into a buff + jerkin.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet, if all this were true, cousin,” answered Montrose, “there is + something convenient in commanding a soldier, upon whose motives and + springs of action you can calculate to a mathematical certainty. A fine + spirit like yours, my cousin, alive to a thousand sensations to which this + man’s is as impervious as his corslet,—it is for such that thy + friend must feel, while he gives his advice.” Then, suddenly changing his + tone, he asked Menteith when he had seen Annot Lyle. + </p> + <p> + The young Earl coloured deeply, and answered, “Not since last evening,—excepting,” + he added, with hesitation, “for one moment, about half an hour before the + battle began.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Menteith,” said Montrose, very kindly, “were you one of the gay + cavaliers of Whitehall, who are, in their way, as great self-seekers as + our friend Dalgetty, should I need to plague you with enquiring into such + an amourette as this? it would be an intrigue only to be laughed at. But + this is the land of enchantment, where nets strong as steel are wrought + out of ladies’ tresses, and you are exactly the destined knight to be so + fettered. This poor girl is exquisitely beautiful, and has talents formed + to captivate your romantic temper. You cannot think of injuring her—you + cannot think of marrying her?” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” replied Menteith, “you have repeatedly urged this jest, for so + I trust it is meant, somewhat beyond bounds. Annot Lyle is of unknown + birth,—a captive,—the daughter, probably, of some obscure + outlaw; a dependant on the hospitality of the M’Aulays.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not be angry, Menteith,” said the Marquis, interrupting him; “you love + the classics, though not educated at Mareschal-College; and you may + remember how many gallant hearts captive beauty has subdued:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Movit Ajacem, Telamone natum, + Forma captivae dominum Tecmessae. +</pre> + <p> + In a word, I am seriously anxious about this—I should not have time, + perhaps,” he added very gravely, “to trouble you with my lectures on the + subject, were your feelings, and those of Annot, alone interested; but you + have a dangerous rival in Allan M’Aulay; and there is no knowing to what + extent he may carry his resentment. It is my duty to tell you that the + King’s service may be much prejudiced by dissensions betwixt you.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” said Menteith, “I know what you mean is kind and friendly; I + hope you will be satisfied when I assure you, that Allan M’Aulay and I + have discussed this circumstance; and that I have explained to him, that + it is utterly remote from my character to entertain dishonourable views + concerning this unprotected female; so, on the other hand, the obscurity + of her birth prevents my thinking of her upon other terms. I will not + disguise from your lordship, what I have not disguised from M’Aulay,—that + if Annot Lyle were born a lady, she should share my name and rank; as + matters stand, it is impossible. This explanation, I trust, will satisfy + your lordship, as it has satisfied a less reasonable person.” + </p> + <p> + Montrose shrugged his shoulders. “And, like true champions in romance,” he + said, “you have agreed, that you are both to worship the same mistress, as + idolaters do the same image, and that neither shall extend his pretensions + farther?” + </p> + <p> + “I did not go so far, my lord,” answered Menteith—“I only said in + the present circumstances—and there is no prospect of their being + changed,—I could, in duty to myself and family, stand in no relation + to Annot Lyle, but as that of friend or brother—But your lordship + must excuse me; I have,” said he, looking at his arm, round which he had + tied his handkerchief, “a slight hurt to attend to.” + </p> + <p> + “A wound?” said Montrose, anxiously; “let me see it.—Alas!” he said, + “I should have heard nothing of this, had I not ventured to tent and sound + another more secret and more rankling one, Menteith; I am sorry for you—I + too have known—But what avails it to awake sorrows which have long + slumbered!” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he shook hands with his noble kinsman, and walked into the + castle. + </p> + <p> + Annot Lyle, as was not unusual for females in the Highlands, was possessed + of a slight degree of medical and even surgical skill. It may readily be + believed, that the profession of surgery, or medicine, as a separate art, + was unknown; and the few rude rules which they observed were intrusted to + women, or to the aged, whom constant casualties afforded too much + opportunity of acquiring experience. The care and attention, accordingly, + of Annot Lyle, her attendants, and others acting under her direction, had + made her services extremely useful during this wild campaign. And most + readily had these services been rendered to friend and foe, wherever they + could be most useful. She was now in an apartment of the castle, anxiously + superintending the preparation of vulnerary herbs, to be applied to the + wounded; receiving reports from different females respecting those under + their separate charge, and distributing what means she had for their + relief, when Allan M’Aulay suddenly entered the apartment. She started, + for she had heard that he had left the camp upon a distant mission; and, + however accustomed she was to the gloom of his countenance, it seemed at + present to have even a darker shade than usual. He stood before her + perfectly silent, and she felt the necessity of being the first to speak. + </p> + <p> + “I thought,” she said, with some effort, “you had already set out.” + </p> + <p> + “My companion awaits me,” said Allan; “I go instantly.” Yet still he stood + before her, and held her by the arm, with a pressure which, though + insufficient to give her pain, made her sensible of his great personal + strength, his hand closing on her like the gripe of a manacle. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I take the harp?” she said, in a timid voice; “is—is the + shadow falling upon you?” + </p> + <p> + Instead of replying, he led her to the window of the apartment, which + commanded a view of the field of the slain, with all its horrors. It was + thick spread with dead and wounded, and the spoilers were busy tearing the + clothes from the victims of war and feudal ambition, with as much + indifference as if they had not been of the same species, and themselves + exposed, perhaps to-morrow, to the same fate. + </p> + <p> + “Does the sight please you?” said M’Aulay. + </p> + <p> + “It is hideous!” said Annot, covering her eyes with her hands; “how can + you bid me look upon it?” + </p> + <p> + “You must be inured to it,” said he, “if you remain with this destined + host—you will soon have to search such a field for my brother’s + corpse—for Menteith’s—for mine—-but that will be a more + indifferent task—You do not love me!” + </p> + <p> + “This is the first time you have taxed me with unkindness,” said Annot, + weeping. “You are my brother—my preserver—my protector—and + can I then BUT love you?—But your hour of darkness is approaching, + let me fetch my harp—” + </p> + <p> + “Remain,” said Allan, still holding her fast; “be my visions from heaven + or hell, or from the middle sphere of disembodied spirits—or be + they, as the Saxons hold, but the delusions of an over-heated fancy, they + do not now influence me; I speak the language of the natural, of the + visible world.—You love not me, Annot—you love Menteith—by + him you are beloved again, and Allan is no more to you than one of the + corpses which encumber yonder heath.” + </p> + <p> + It cannot be supposed that this strange speech conveyed any new + information to her who was thus addressed. No woman ever lived who could + not, in the same circumstances, have discerned long since the state of her + lover’s mind. But by thus suddenly tearing off the veil, thin as it was, + Allan prepared her to expect consequences violent in proportion to the + enthusiasm of his character. She made an effort to repel the charge he had + stated. + </p> + <p> + “You forget,” she said, “your own worth and nobleness when you insult so + very helpless a being, and one whom fate has thrown so totally into your + power. You know who and what I am, and how impossible it is that Menteith + or you can use language of affection to me, beyond that of friendship. You + know from what unhappy race I have too probably derived my existence.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not believe it,” said Allan, impetuously; “never flowed crystal + drop from a polluted spring.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet the very doubt,” pleaded Annot, “should make you forbear to use this + language to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I know,” said M’Aulay, “it places a bar between us—but I know also + that it divides you not so inseparably from Menteith.—Hear me, my + beloved Annot!—leave this scene of terrors and danger—go with + me to Kintail—I will place you in the house of the noble Lady of + Seaforth—or you shall be removed in safety to Icolmkill, where some + women yet devote themselves to the worship of God, after the custom of our + ancestors.” + </p> + <p> + “You consider not what you ask of me,” replied Annot; “to undertake such a + journey under your sole guardianship, were to show me less scrupulous than + maiden ought. I will remain here, Allan—here under the protection of + the noble Montrose; and when his motions next approach the Lowlands, I + will contrive some proper means to relieve you of one, who has, she knows + not how, become an object of dislike to you.” + </p> + <p> + Allan stood as if uncertain whether to give way to sympathy with her + distress, or to anger at her resistance. + </p> + <p> + “Annot,” he said, “you know too well how little your words apply to my + feelings towards you—but you avail yourself of your power, and you + rejoice in my departure, as removing a spy upon your intercourse with + Menteith. But beware both of you,” he added, in a stern tone; “for when + was it ever heard that an injury was offered to Allan M’Aulay, for which + he exacted not tenfold vengeance?” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he pressed her arm forcibly, pulled the bonnet over his brows, + and strode out of the apartment. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + —After you’re gone, + I grew acquainted with my heart, and search’d, + What stirr’d it so.—Alas! I found it love. + Yet far from lust, for could I but have lived + In presence of you, I had had my end.—PHILASTER. +</pre> + <p> + Annot Lyle had now to contemplate the terrible gulf which Allan M’Aulay’s + declaration of love and jealousy had made to open around her. It seemed as + if she was tottering on the very brink of destruction, and was at once + deprived of every refuge, and of all human assistance. She had long been + conscious that she loved Menteith dearer than a brother; indeed, how could + it be otherwise, considering their early intimacy, the personal merit of + the young nobleman, his assiduous attentions,—and his infinite + superiority in gentleness of disposition, and grace of manners, over the + race of rude warriors with whom she lived? But her affection was of that + quiet, timid, meditative character, which sought rather a reflected share + in the happiness of the beloved object, than formed more presumptuous or + daring hopes. A little Gaelic song, in which she expressed her feelings, + has been translated by the ingenious and unhappy Andrew M’Donald; and we + willingly transcribe the lines:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Wert thou, like me, in life’s low vale, + With thee how blest, that lot I’d share; + With thee I’d fly wherever gale + Could waft, or bounding galley bear. + But parted by severe decree, + Far different must our fortunes prove; + May thine be joy—enough for me + To weep and pray for him I love. + + The pangs this foolish heart must feel, + When hope shall be forever flown, + No sullen murmur shall reveal, + No selfish murmurs ever own. + Nor will I through life’s weary years, + Like a pale drooping mourner move, + While I can think my secret tears + May wound the heart of him I love. +</pre> + <p> + The furious declaration of Allan had destroyed the romantic plan which she + had formed, of nursing in secret her pensive tenderness, without seeking + any other requital. Long before this, she had dreaded Allan, as much as + gratitude, and a sense that he softened towards her a temper so haughty + and so violent, could permit her to do; but now she regarded him with + unalloyed terror, which a perfect knowledge of his disposition, and of his + preceding history, too well authorised her to entertain. Whatever was in + other respects the nobleness of his disposition, he had never been known + to resist the wilfulness of passion,—he walked in the house, and in + the country of his fathers, like a tamed lion, whom no one dared to + contradict, lest they should awaken his natural vehemence of passion. So + many years had elapsed since he had experienced contradiction, or even + expostulation, that probably nothing but the strong good sense, which, on + all points, his mysticism excepted, formed the ground of his character, + prevented his proving an annoyance and terror to the whole neighbourhood. + But Annot had no time to dwell upon her fears, being interrupted by the + entrance of Sir Dugald Dalgetty. + </p> + <p> + It may well be supposed, that the scenes in which this person had passed + his former life, had not much qualified him to shine in female society. He + himself felt a sort of consciousness that the language of the barrack, + guard-room, and parade, was not proper to entertain ladies. The only + peaceful part of his life had been spent at Mareschal-College, Aberdeen; + and he had forgot the little he had learned there, except the arts of + darning his own hose, and dispatching his commons with unusual celerity, + both which had since been kept in good exercise by the necessity of + frequent practice. Still it was from an imperfect recollection of what he + had acquired during this pacific period, that he drew his sources of + conversation when in company with women; in other words, his language + became pedantic when it ceased to be military. + </p> + <p> + “Mistress Annot Lyle,” said he, upon the present occasion, “I am just now + like the half-pike, or spontoon of Achilles, one end of which could wound + and the other cure—a property belonging neither to Spanish pike, + brown-bill, partizan, halberd, Lochaber-axe, or indeed any other modern + staff-weapon whatever.” This compliment he repeated twice; but as Annot + scarce heard him the first time, and did not comprehend him the second, he + was obliged to explain. + </p> + <p> + “I mean,” he said, “Mistress Annot Lyle, that having been the means of an + honourable knight receiving a severe wound in this day’s conflict,—he + having pistolled, somewhat against the law of arms, my horse, which was + named after the immortal King of Sweden,—I am desirous of procuring + him such solacement as you, madam, can supply, you being like the heathen + god Esculapius” (meaning possibly Apollo), “skilful not only in song and + in music, but in the more noble art of chirurgery-OPIFERQUE PER ORBEM + DICOR.” + </p> + <p> + “If you would have the goodness to explain,” said Annot, too sick at heart + to be amused by Sir Dugald’s airs of pedantic gallantry. + </p> + <p> + “That, madam,” replied the Knight, “may not be so easy, as I am out of the + habit of construing—but we shall try. DICOR, supply EGO—I am + called,—OPIFER? OPIFER?—I remember SIGNIFER and FURCIFER—but + I believe OPIFER stands in this place for M.D., that is, Doctor of + Physic.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a busy day with us all,” said Annot; “will you say at once what + you want with me?” + </p> + <p> + “Merely,” replied Sir Dugald, “that you will visit my brother knight, and + let your maiden bring some medicaments for his wound, which threatens to + be what the learned call a DAMNUM FATALE.” + </p> + <p> + Annot Lyle never lingered in the cause of humanity. She informed herself + hastily of the nature of the injury, and interesting herself for the + dignified old Chief whom she had seen at Darnlinvarach, and whose presence + had so much struck her, she hastened to lose the sense of her own sorrow + for a time, in the attempt to be useful to another. + </p> + <p> + Sir Dugald with great form ushered Annot Lyle to the chamber of her + patient, in which, to her surprise, she found Lord Menteith. She could not + help blushing deeply at the meeting, but, to hide her confusion, proceeded + instantly to examine the wound of the Knight of Ardenvohr, and easily + satisfied herself that it was beyond her skill to cure it. As for Sir + Dugald, he returned to a large outhouse, on the floor of which, among + other wounded men, was deposited the person of Ranald of the Mist. + </p> + <p> + “Mine old friend,” said the Knight, “as I told you before, I would + willingly do anything to pleasure you, in return for the wound you have + received while under my safe-conduct. I have, therefore, according to your + earnest request, sent Mrs. Annot Lyle to attend upon the wound of the + knight of Ardenvohr, though wherein her doing so should benefit you, I + cannot imagine.—I think you once spoke of some blood relationship + between them; but a soldado, in command and charge like me, has other + things to trouble his head with than Highland genealogies.” + </p> + <p> + And indeed, to do the worthy Major justice, he never enquired after, + listened to, or recollected, the business of other people, unless it + either related to the art military, or was somehow or other connected with + his own interest, in either of which cases his memory was very tenacious. + </p> + <p> + “And now, my good friend of the Mist,” said he, “can you tell me what has + become of your hopeful grandson, as I have not seen him since he assisted + me to disarm after the action, a negligence which deserveth the strapado?” + </p> + <p> + “He is not far from hence,” said the wounded outlaw—“lift not your + hand upon him, for he is man enough to pay a yard of leathern scourge with + a foot of tempered steel.” + </p> + <p> + “A most improper vaunt,” said Sir Dugald; “but I owe you some favours, + Ranald, and therefore shall let it pass.” + </p> + <p> + “And if you think you owe me anything,” said the outlaw, “it is in your + power to requite me by granting me a boon.” + </p> + <p> + “Friend Ranald,” answered Dalgetty, “I have read of these boons in silly + story-books, whereby simple knights were drawn into engagements to their + great prejudice; wherefore, Ranald, the more prudent knights of this day + never promise anything until they know that they may keep their word anent + the premises, without any displeasure or incommodement to themselves. It + may be, you would have me engage the female chirurgeon to visit your + wound; though you ought to consider, Ranald, that the uncleanness of the + place where you are deposited may somewhat soil the gaiety of her + garments, concerning the preservation of which, you may have observed, + women are apt to be inordinately solicitous. I lost the favour of the lady + of the Grand Pensionary of Amsterdam, by touching with the sole of my boot + the train of her black velvet gown, which I mistook for a foot-cloth, it + being half the room distant from her person.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not to bring Annot Lyle hither,” answered MacEagh, “but to + transport me into the room where she is in attendance upon the Knight of + Ardenvohr. Somewhat I have to say of the last consequence to them both.” + </p> + <p> + “It is something out of the order of due precedence,” said Dalgetty, “to + carry a wounded outlaw into the presence of a knight; knighthood having + been of yore, and being, in some respects, still, the highest military + grade, independent always of commissioned officers, who rank according to + their patents; nevertheless, as your boon, as you call it, is so slight, I + shall not deny compliance with the same.” So saying, he ordered three + files of men to transport MacEagh on their shoulders to Sir Duncan + Campbell’s apartment, and he himself hastened before to announce the cause + of his being brought thither. But such was the activity of the soldiers + employed, that they followed him close at the heels, and, entering with + their ghastly burden, laid MacEagh on the floor of the apartment. His + features, naturally wild, were now distorted by pain; his hands and scanty + garments stained with his own blood, and those of others, which no kind + hand had wiped away, although the wound in his side had been secured by a + bandage. + </p> + <p> + “Are you,” he said, raising his head painfully towards the couch where lay + stretched his late antagonist, “he whom men call the Knight of Ardenvohr?” + </p> + <p> + “The same,” answered Sir Duncan,—“what would you with one whose + hours are now numbered?” + </p> + <p> + “My hours are reduced to minutes,” said the outlaw; “the more grace, if I + bestow them in the service of one, whose hand has ever been against me, as + mine has been raised higher against him.” + </p> + <p> + “Thine higher against me!—Crushed worm!” said the Knight, looking + down on his miserable adversary. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” answered the outlaw, in a firm voice, “my arm hath been highest. In + the deadly contest betwixt us, the wounds I have dealt have been deepest, + though thine have neither been idle nor unfelt.—I am Ranald MacEagh—I + am Ranald of the Mist—the night that I gave thy castle to the winds + in one huge blaze of fire, is now matched with the day in which you have + fallen under the sword of my fathers.—Remember the injuries thou + hast done our tribe—never were such inflicted, save by one, beside + thee. HE, they say, is fated and secure against our vengeance—a + short time will show.” + </p> + <p> + “My Lord Menteith,” said Sir Duncan, raising himself out of his bed, “this + is a proclaimed villain, at once the enemy of King and Parliament, of God + and man—one of the outlawed banditti of the Mist; alike the enemy of + your house, of the M’Aulays, and of mine. I trust you will not suffer + moments, which are perhaps my last, to be embittered by his barbarous + triumph.” + </p> + <p> + “He shall have the treatment he merits,” said Menteith; “let him be + instantly removed.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Dugald here interposed, and spoke of Ranald’s services as a guide, and + his own pledge for his safety; but the high harsh tones of the outlaw + drowned his voice. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said he, “be rack and gibbet the word! let me wither between heaven + and earth, and gorge the hawks and eagles of Ben-Nevis; and so shall this + haughty Knight, and this triumphant Thane, never learn the secret I alone + can impart; a secret which would make Ardenvohr’s heart leap with joy, + were he in the death agony, and which the Earl of Menteith would purchase + at the price of his broad earldom.—Come hither, Annot Lyle,” he + said, raising himself with unexpected strength; “fear not the sight of him + to whom thou hast clung in infancy. Tell these proud men, who disdain thee + as the issue of mine ancient race, that thou art no blood of ours,—no + daughter of the race of the Mist, but born in halls as lordly, and cradled + on couch as soft, as ever soothed infancy in their proudest palaces.” + </p> + <p> + “In the name of God,” said Menteith, trembling with emotion, “if you know + aught of the birth of this lady, do thy conscience the justice to + disburden it of the secret before departing from this world!” + </p> + <p> + “And bless my enemies with my dying breath?” said MacEagh, looking at him + malignantly.—“Such are the maxims your priests preach—but + when, or towards whom, do you practise them? Let me know first the worth + of my secret ere I part with it—What would you give, Knight of + Ardenvohr, to know that your superstitious fasts have been vain, and that + there still remains a descendant of your house?—I pause for an + answer—without it, I speak not one word more. + </p> + <p> + “I could,” said Sir Duncan, his voice struggling between the emotions of + doubt, hatred, and anxiety—“I could—but that I know thy race + are like the Great Enemy, liars and murderers from the beginning—but + could it be true thou tellest me, I could almost forgive thee the injuries + thou hast done me.” + </p> + <p> + “Hear it!” said Ranald; “he hath wagered deeply for a son of Diarmid—And + you, gentle Thane—the report of the camp says, that you would + purchase with life and lands the tidings that Annot Lyle was no daughter + of proscription, but of a race noble in your estimation as your own—Well—It + is for no love I tell you—The time has been that I would have + exchanged this secret against liberty; I am now bartering it for what is + dearer than liberty or life.—Annot Lyle is the youngest, the sole + surviving child of the Knight of Ardenvohr, who alone was saved when all + in his halls besides was given to blood and ashes.” + </p> + <p> + “Can this man speak truth?” said Annot Lyle, scarce knowing what she said; + “or is this some strange delusion?” + </p> + <p> + “Maiden,” replied Ranald, “hadst thou dwelt longer with us, thou wouldst + have better learnt to know how to distinguish the accents of truth. To + that Saxon lord, and to the Knight of Ardenvohr, I will yield such proofs + of what I have spoken, that incredulity shall stand convinced. Meantime, + withdraw—I loved thine infancy, I hate not thy youth—no eye + hates the rose in its blossom, though it groweth upon a thorn, and for + thee only do I something regret what is soon to follow. But he that would + avenge him of his foe must not reck though the guiltless be engaged in the + ruin.” + </p> + <p> + “He advises well, Annot,” said Lord Menteith; “in God’s name retire! if—if + there be aught in this, your meeting with Sir Duncan must be more prepared + for both your sakes.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not part from my father, if I have found one!” said Annot—“I + will not part from him under circumstances so terrible.” + </p> + <p> + “And a father you shall ever find in me,” murmured Sir Duncan. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said Menteith, “I will have MacEagh removed into an adjacent + apartment, and will collect the evidence of his tale myself. Sir Dugald + Dalgetty will give me his attendance and assistance.” + </p> + <p> + “With pleasure, my lord,” answered Sir Dugald.—“I will be your + confessor, or assessor—either or both. No one can be so fit, for I + had heard the whole story a month ago at Inverary castle—but + onslaughts like that of Ardenvohr confuse each other in my memory, which + is besides occupied with matters of more importance.” + </p> + <p> + Upon hearing this frank declaration, which was made as they left the + apartment with the wounded man, Lord Menteith darted upon Dalgetty a look + of extreme anger and disdain, to which the self-conceit of the worthy + commander rendered him totally insensible. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + I am as free as nature first made man, + Ere the base laws of servitude began, + When wild in woods the noble savage ran. + —CONQUEST OF GRANADA +</pre> + <p> + The Earl of Menteith, as he had undertaken, so he proceeded to investigate + more closely the story told by Ranald of the Mist, which was corroborated + by the examination of his two followers, who had assisted in the capacity + of guides. These declarations he carefully compared with such + circumstances concerning the destruction of his castle and family as Sir + Duncan Campbell was able to supply; and it may be supposed he had + forgotten nothing relating to an event of such terrific importance. It was + of the last consequence to prove that this was no invention of the + outlaw’s, for the purpose of passing an impostor as the child and heiress + of Ardenvohr. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps Menteith, so much interested in believing the tale, was not + altogether the fittest person to be intrusted with the investigation of + its truth; but the examinations of the Children of the Mist were simple, + accurate, and in all respects consistent with each other. A personal mark + was referred to, which was known to have been borne by the infant child of + Sir Duncan, and which appeared upon the left shoulder of Annot Lyle. It + was also well remembered, that when the miserable relics of the other + children had been collected, those of the infant had nowhere been found. + Other circumstances of evidence, which it is unnecessary to quote, brought + the fullest conviction not only to Menteith, but to the unprejudiced mind + of Montrose, that in Annot Lyle, an humble dependant, distinguished only + by beauty and talent, they were in future to respect the heiress of + Ardenvohr. + </p> + <p> + While Menteith hastened to communicate the result of these enquiries to + the persons most interested, the outlaw demanded to speak with his + grandchild, whom he usually called his son. “He would be found,” he said, + “in the outer apartment, in which he himself had been originally + deposited.” + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, the young savage, after a close search, was found lurking in + a corner, coiled up among some rotten straw, and brought to his grandsire. + </p> + <p> + “Kenneth,” said the old outlaw, “hear the last words of the sire of thy + father. A Saxon soldier, and Allan of the Red-hand, left this camp within + these few hours, to travel to the country to Caberfae. Pursue them as the + bloodhound pursues the hurt deer—swim the lake-climb the mountain—thread + the forest—tarry not until you join them;” and then the countenance + of the lad darkened as his grandfather spoke, and he laid his hand upon a + knife which stuck in the thong of leather that confined his scanty plaid. + “No!” said the old man; “it is not by thy hand he must fall. They will ask + the news from the camp—say to them that Annot Lyle of the Harp is + discovered to be the daughter of Duncan of Ardenvohr; that the Thane of + Menteith is to wed her before the priest; and that you are sent to bid + guests to the bridal. Tarry not their answer, but vanish like the + lightning when the black cloud swallows it.—And now depart, beloved + son of my best beloved! I shall never more see thy face, nor hear the + light sound of thy footstep—yet tarry an instant and hear my last + charge. Remember the fate of our race, and quit not the ancient manners of + the Children of the Mist. We are now a straggling handful, driven from + every vale by the sword of every clan, who rule in the possessions where + their forefathers hewed the wood, and drew the water for ours. But in the + thicket of the wilderness, and in the mist of the mountain, Kenneth, son + of Eracht, keep thou unsoiled the freedom which I leave thee as a + birthright. Barter it not neither for the rich garment, nor for the + stone-roof, nor for the covered board, nor for the couch of down—on + the rock or in the valley, in abundance or in famine—in the leafy + summer, and in the days of the iron winter—Son of the Mist! be free + as thy forefathers. Own no lord—receive no law—take no hire—give + no stipend—build no hut—enclose no pasture—sow no grain;—let + the deer of the mountain be thy flocks and herds—if these fail thee, + prey upon the goods of our oppressors—of the Saxons, and of such + Gael as are Saxons in their souls, valuing herds and flocks more than + honour and freedom. Well for us that they do so—it affords the + broader scope for our revenge. Remember those who have done kindness to + our race, and pay their services with thy blood, should the hour require + it. If a MacIan shall come to thee with the head of the king’s son in his + hand, shelter him, though the avenging army of the father were behind him; + for in Glencoe and Ardnamurchan, we have dwelt in peace in the years that + have gone by. The sons of Diarmid—the race of Darnlinvarach—the + riders of Menteith—my curse on thy head, Child of the Mist, if thou + spare one of those names, when the time shall offer for cutting them off! + and it will come anon, for their own swords shall devour each other, and + those who are scattered shall fly to the Mist, and perish by its Children. + Once more, begone—shake the dust from thy feet against the + habitations of men, whether banded together for peace or for war. + Farewell, beloved! and mayst thou die like thy forefathers, ere infirmity, + disease, or age, shall break thy spirit—Begone!—begone!—live + free—requite kindness—avenge the injuries of thy race!” + </p> + <p> + The young savage stooped, and kissed the brow of his dying parent; but + accustomed from infancy to suppress every exterior sign of emotion, he + parted without tear or adieu, and was soon far beyond the limits of + Montrose’s camp. + </p> + <p> + Sir Dugald Dalgetty, who was present during the latter part of this scene, + was very little edified by the conduct of MacEagh upon the occasion. “I + cannot think, my friend Ranald,” said he, “that you are in the best + possible road for a dying man. Storms, onslaughts, massacres, the burning + of suburbs, are indeed a soldier’s daily work, and are justified by the + necessity of the case, seeing that they are done in the course of duty; + for burning of suburbs, in particular, it may be said that they are + traitors and cut-throats to all fortified towns. Hence it is plain, that a + soldier is a profession peculiarly favoured by Heaven, seeing that we may + hope for salvation, although we daily commit actions of so great violence. + But then, Ranald, in all services of Europe, it is the custom of the dying + soldier not to vaunt him of such doings, or to recommend them to his + fellows; but, on the contrary, to express contrition for the same, and to + repeat, or have repeated to him, some comfortable prayer; which, if you + please, I will intercede with his Excellency’s chaplain to prefer on your + account. It is otherwise no point of my duty to put you in mind of those + things; only it may be for the ease of your conscience to depart more like + a Christian, and less like a Turk, than you seem to be in a fair way of + doing.” + </p> + <p> + The only answer of the dying man—(for as such Ranald MacEagh might + now be considered)—was a request to be raised to such a position + that he might obtain a view from the window of the Castle. The deep frost + mist, which had long settled upon the top of the mountains, was now + rolling down each rugged glen and gully, where the craggy ridges showed + their black and irregular outline, like desert islands rising above the + ocean of vapour. “Spirit of the Mist!” said Ranald MacEagh, “called by our + race our father, and our preserver—receive into thy tabernacle of + clouds, when this pang is over, him whom in life thou hast so often + sheltered.” So saying, he sunk back into the arms of those who upheld him, + spoke no further word, but turned his face to the wall for a short space. + </p> + <p> + “I believe,” said Dalgetty, “my friend Ranald will be found in his heart + to be little better than a heathen.” And he renewed his proposal to + procure him the assistance of Dr. Wisheart, Montrose’s military chaplain; + “a man,” said Sir Dugald, “very clever in his exercise, and who will do + execution on your sins in less time than I could smoke a pipe of tobacco.” + </p> + <p> + “Saxon,” said the dying man, “speak to me no more of thy priest—I + die contented. Hadst thou ever an enemy against whom weapons were of no + avail—whom the ball missed, and against whom the arrow shivered, and + whose bare skin was as impenetrable to sword and dirk as thy steel garment—Heardst + thou ever of such a foe?” + </p> + <p> + “Very frequently, when I served in Germany,” replied Sir Dugald. “There + was such a fellow at Ingolstadt; he was proof both against lead and steel. + The soldiers killed him with the buts of their muskets.” + </p> + <p> + “This impassible foe,” said Ranald, without regarding the Major’s + interruption, “who has the blood dearest to me upon his hands—to + this man I have now bequeathed agony of mind, jealousy, despair, and + sudden death,—or a life more miserable than death itself. Such shall + be the lot of Allan of the Red-hand, when he learns that Annot weds + Menteith and I ask no more than the certainty that it is so, to sweeten my + own bloody end by his hand.” + </p> + <p> + “If that be the case,” said the Major, “there’s no more to be said; but I + shall take care as few people see you as possible, for I cannot think your + mode of departure can be at all creditable or exemplary to a Christian + army.” So saying, he left the apartment, and the Son of the Mist soon + after breathed his last. + </p> + <p> + Menteith, in the meanwhile, leaving the new-found relations to their + mutual feelings of mingled emotion, was eagerly discussing with Montrose + the consequences of this discovery. “I should now see,” said the Marquis, + “even had I not before observed it, that your interest in this discovery, + my dear Menteith, has no small reference to your own happiness. You love + this new-found lady,—your affection is returned. In point of birth, + no exceptions can be made; in every other respect, her advantages are + equal to those which you yourself possess—think, however, a moment. + Sir Duncan is a fanatic—Presbyterian, at least—in arms against + the King; he is only with us in the quality of a prisoner, and we are, I + fear, but at the commencement of a long civil war. Is this a time, think + you, Menteith, for you to make proposals for his heiress? Or what chance + is there that he will now listen to it?” + </p> + <p> + Passion, an ingenious, as well as an eloquent advocate, supplied the young + nobleman with a thousand answers to these objections. He reminded Montrose + that the Knight of Ardenvohr was neither a bigot in politics nor religion. + He urged his own known and proved zeal for the royal cause, and hinted + that its influence might be extended and strengthened by his wedding the + heiress of Ardenvohr. He pleaded the dangerous state of Sir Duncan’s + wound, the risk which must be run by suffering the young lady to be + carried into the country of the Campbells, where, in case of her father’s + death, or continued indisposition, she must necessarily be placed under + the guardianship of Argyle, an event fatal to his (Menteith’s) hopes, + unless he could stoop to purchase his favour by abandoning the King’s + party. + </p> + <p> + Montrose allowed the force of these arguments, and owned, although the + matter was attended with difficulty, yet it seemed consistent with the + King’s service that it should be concluded as speedily as possible. + </p> + <p> + “I could wish,” said he, “that it were all settled in one way or another, + and that this fair Briseis were removed from our camp before the return of + our Highland Achilles, Allan M’Aulay.—I fear some fatal feud in that + quarter, Menteith—and I believe it would be best that Sir Duncan be + dismissed on his parole, and that you accompany him and his daughter as + his escort. The journey can be made chiefly by water, so will not greatly + incommode his wound—and your own, my friend, will be an honourable + excuse for the absence of some time from my camp.” + </p> + <p> + “Never!” said Menteith. “Were I to forfeit the very hope that has so + lately dawned upon me, never will I leave your Excellency’s camp while the + royal standard is displayed. I should deserve that this trifling scratch + should gangrene and consume my sword-arm, were I capable of holding it as + an excuse for absence at this crisis of the King’s affairs.” + </p> + <p> + “On this, then, you are determined?” said Montrose. + </p> + <p> + “As fixed as Ben-Nevis,” said the young nobleman. + </p> + <p> + “You must, then,” said Montrose, “lose no time in seeking an explanation + with the Knight of Ardenvohr. If this prove favourable, I will talk myself + with the elder M’Aulay, and we will devise means to employ his brother at + a distance from the army until he shall be reconciled to his present + disappointment. Would to God some vision would descend upon his + imagination fair enough to obliterate all traces of Annot Lyle! That + perhaps you think impossible, Menteith?—Well, each to his service; + you to that of Cupid, and I to that of Mars.” + </p> + <p> + They parted, and in pursuance of the scheme arranged, Menteith, early on + the ensuing morning, sought a private interview with the wounded Knight of + Ardenvohr, and communicated to him his suit for the hand of his daughter. + Of their mutual attachment Sir Duncan was aware, but he was not prepared + for so early a declaration on the part of Menteith. He said, at first, + that he had already, perhaps, indulged too much in feelings of personal + happiness, at a time when his clan had sustained so great a loss and + humiliation, and that he was unwilling, therefore, farther to consider the + advancement of his own house at a period so calamitous. On the more urgent + suit of the noble lover, he requested a few hours to deliberate and + consult with his daughter, upon a question so highly important. + </p> + <p> + The result of this interview and deliberation was favourable to Menteith. + Sir Duncan Campbell became fully sensible that the happiness of his + new-found daughter depended upon a union with her lover; and unless such + were now formed, he saw that Argyle would throw a thousand obstacles in + the way of a match in every respect acceptable to himself. Menteith’s + private character was so excellent, and such was the rank and + consideration due to his fortune and family, that they outbalanced, in Sir + Duncan’s opinion, the difference in their political opinions. Nor could he + have resolved, perhaps, had his own opinion of the match been less + favourable, to decline an opportunity of indulging the new-found child of + his hopes. There was, besides, a feeling of pride which dictated his + determination. To produce the Heiress of Ardenvohr to the world as one who + had been educated a poor dependant and musician in the family of + Darnlinvarach, had something in it that was humiliating. To introduce her + as the betrothed bride, or wedded wife, of the Earl of Menteith, upon an + attachment formed during her obscurity, was a warrant to the world that + she had at all times been worthy of the rank to which she was elevated. + </p> + <p> + It was under the influence of these considerations that Sir Duncan + Campbell announced to the lovers his consent that they should be married + in the chapel of the Castle, by Montrose’s chaplain, and as privately as + possible. But when Montrose should break up from Inverlochy, for which + orders were expected in the course of a very few days, it was agreed that + the young Countess should depart with her father to his Castle, and remain + there until the circumstances of the nation permitted Menteith to retire + with honour from his present military employment. His resolution being + once taken, Sir Duncan Campbell would not permit the maidenly scruples of + his daughter to delay its execution; and it was therefore resolved that + the bridal should take place the next evening, being the second after the + battle. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My maid—my blue-eyed maid, he bore away, + Due to the toils of many a bloody day.—ILLIAD. +</pre> + <p> + It was necessary, for many reasons, that Angus M’Aulay, so long the kind + protector of Annot Lyle, should be made acquainted with the change in the + fortunes of his late protege; and Montrose, as he had undertaken, + communicated to him these remarkable events. With the careless and + cheerful indifference of his character, he expressed much more joy than + wonder at Annot’s good fortune; had no doubt whatever she would merit it, + and as she had always been bred in loyal principles, would convey the + whole estate of her grim fanatical father to some honest fellow who loved + the king. “I should have no objection that my brother Allan should try his + chance,” added he, “notwithstanding that Sir Duncan Campbell was the only + man who ever charged Darnlinvarach with inhospitality. Annot Lyle could + always charm Allan out of the sullens, and who knows whether matrimony + might not make him more a man of this world?” Montrose hastened to + interrupt the progress of his castle-building, by informing him that the + lady was already wooed and won, and, with her father’s approbation, was + almost immediately to be wedded to his kinsman, the Earl of Menteith; and + that in testimony of the high respect due to M’Aulay, so long the lady’s + protector, he was now to request his presence at the ceremony. M’Aulay + looked very grave at this intimation, and drew up his person with the air + of one who thought that he had been neglected. + </p> + <p> + “He contrived,” he said, “that his uniform kind treatment of the young + lady, while so many years under his roof, required something more upon + such an occasion than a bare compliment of ceremony. He might,” he + thought, “without arrogance, have expected to have been consulted. He + wished his kinsman of Menteith well, no man could wish him better; but he + must say he thought he had been hasty in this matter. Allan’s sentiments + towards the young lady had been pretty well understood, and he, for one, + could not see why the superior pretensions which he had upon her gratitude + should have been set aside, without at least undergoing some previous + discussion.” + </p> + <p> + Montrose, seeing too well where all this pointed, entreated M’Aulay to be + reasonable, and to consider what probability there was that the Knight of + Ardenvohr could be brought to confer the hand of his sole heiress upon + Allan, whose undeniable excellent qualities were mingled with others, by + which they were overclouded in a manner that made all tremble who + approached him. + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” said Angus M’Aulay, “my brother Allan has, as God made us all, + faults as well as merits; but he is the best and bravest man of your army, + be the other who he may, and therefore ill deserved that his happiness + should have been so little consulted by your Excellency—by his own + near kinsman—and by a young person who owes all to him and to his + family.” + </p> + <p> + Montrose in vain endeavoured to place the subject in a different view; + this was the point in which Angus was determined to regard it, and he was + a man of that calibre of understanding, who is incapable of being + convinced when he has once adopted a prejudice. Montrose now assumed a + higher tone, and called upon Angus to take care how he nourished any + sentiments which might be prejudicial to his Majesty’s service. He pointed + out to him, that he was peculiarly desirous that Allan’s efforts should + not be interrupted in the course of his present mission; “a mission,” he + said, “highly honourable for himself, and likely to prove most + advantageous to the King’s cause. He expected his brother would hold no + communication with him upon other subjects, nor stir up any cause of + dissension, which might divert his mind from a matter of such importance.” + </p> + <p> + Angus answered somewhat sulkily, that “he was no makebate, or stirrer-up + of quarrels; he would rather be a peacemaker. His brother knew as well as + most men how to resent his own quarrels—as for Allan’s mode of + receiving information, it was generally believed he had other sources than + those of ordinary couriers. He should not be surprised if they saw him + sooner than they expected.” + </p> + <p> + A promise that he would not interfere, was the farthest to which Montrose + could bring this man, thoroughly good-tempered as he was on all occasions, + save when his pride, interest, or prejudices, were interfered with. And at + this point the Marquis was fain to leave the matter for the present. + </p> + <p> + A more willing guest at the bridal ceremony, certainly a more willing + attendant at the marriage feast, was to be expected in Sir Dugald + Dalgetty, whom Montrose resolved to invite, as having been a confidant to + the circumstances which preceded it. But even Sir Dugald hesitated, looked + on the elbows of his doublet, and the knees of his leather breeches, and + mumbled out a sort of reluctant acquiescence in the invitation, providing + he should find it possible, after consulting with the noble bridegroom. + Montrose was somewhat surprised, but scorning to testify displeasure, he + left Sir Dugald to pursue his own course. + </p> + <p> + This carried him instantly to the chamber of the bride-groom, who, amidst + the scanty wardrobe which his camp-equipage afforded, was seeking for such + articles as might appear to the best advantage upon the approaching + occasion. Sir Dugald entered, and paid his compliments, with a very grave + face, upon his approaching happiness, which, he said, “he was very sorry + he was prevented from witnessing.” + </p> + <p> + “In plain truth,” said he, “I should but disgrace the ceremony, seeing + that I lack a bridal garment. Rents, and open seams, and tatters at elbows + in the apparel of the assistants, might presage a similar solution of + continuity in your matrimonial happiness—and to say truth, my lord, + you yourself must partly have the blame of this disappointment, in respect + you sent me upon a fool’s errand to get a buff-coat out of the booty taken + by the Camerons, whereas you might as well have sent me to fetch a pound + of fresh butter out of a black dog’s throat. I had no answer, my lord, but + brandished dirks and broadswords, and a sort of growling and jabbering in + what they call their language. For my part, I believe these Highlanders to + be no better than absolute pagans, and have been much scandalized by the + manner in which my acquaintance, Ranald MacEagh, was pleased to beat his + final march, a little while since.” + </p> + <p> + In Menteith’s state of mind, disposed to be pleased with everything, and + everybody, the grave complaint of Sir Dugald furnished additional + amusement. He requested his acceptance of a very handsome buff-dress which + was lying on the floor. “I had intended it,” he said, “for my own + bridal-garment, as being the least formidable of my warlike equipments, + and I have here no peaceful dress.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Dugald made the necessary apologies—would not by any means + deprive—and so forth, until it happily occurred to him that it was + much more according to military rule that the Earl should be married in + his back and breast pieces, which dress he had seen the bridegroom wear at + the union of Prince Leo of Wittlesbach with the youngest daughter of old + George Frederick, of Saxony, under the auspices of the gallant Gustavus + Adolphus, the Lion of the North, and so forth. The good-natured young Earl + laughed, and acquiesced; and thus having secured at least one merry face + at his bridal, he put on a light and ornamented cuirass, concealed partly + by a velvet coat, and partly by a broad blue silk scarf, which he wore + over his shoulder, agreeably to his rank, and the fashion of the times. + </p> + <p> + Everything was now arranged; and it had been settled that, according to + the custom of the country, the bride and bridegroom should not again meet + until they were before the altar. The hour had already struck that + summoned the bridegroom thither, and he only waited in a small anteroom + adjacent to the chapel, for the Marquis, who condescended to act as + bride’s-man upon the occasion. Business relating to the army having + suddenly required the Marquis’s instant attention, Menteith waited his + return, it may be supposed, in some impatience; and when he heard the door + of the apartment open, he said, laughing, “You are late upon parade.” + </p> + <p> + “You will find I am too early,” said Allan M’Aulay, who burst into the + apartment. “Draw, Menteith, and defend yourself like a man, or die like a + dog!” + </p> + <p> + “You are mad, Allan!” answered Menteith, astonished alike at his sudden + appearance, and at the unutterable fury of his demeanour. His cheeks were + livid—his eyes started from their sockets—his lips were + covered with foam, and his gestures were those of a demoniac. + </p> + <p> + “You lie, traitor!” was his frantic reply—“you lie in that, as you + lie in all you have said to me. Your life is a lie!” + </p> + <p> + “Did I not speak my thoughts when I called you mad,” said Menteith, + indignantly, “your own life were a brief one. In what do you charge me + with deceiving you?” + </p> + <p> + “You told me,” answered M’Aulay, “that you would not marry Annot Lyle!—False + traitor!—she now waits you at the altar.” + </p> + <p> + “It is you who speak false,” retorted Menteith. “I told you the obscurity + of her birth was the only bar to our union—that is now removed; and + whom do you think yourself, that I should yield up my pretensions in your + favour?” + </p> + <p> + “Draw then,” said M’Aulay; “we understand each other.” + </p> + <p> + “Not now,” said Menteith, “and not here. Allan, you know me well—wait + till to-morrow, and you shall have fighting enough.” + </p> + <p> + “This hour—this instant—or never,” answered M’Aulay. + </p> + <p> + “Your triumph shall not go farther than the hour which is stricken. + Menteith, I entreat you by our relationship—by our joint conflicts + and labours—draw your sword, and defend your life!” As he spoke, he + seized the Earl’s hand, and wrung it with such frantic earnestness, that + his grasp forced the blood to start under the nails. Menteith threw him + off with violence, exclaiming, “Begone, madman!” + </p> + <p> + “Then, be the vision accomplished!” said Allan; and, drawing his dirk, + struck with his whole gigantic force at the Earl’s bosom. The temper of + the corslet threw the point of the weapon upwards, but a deep wound took + place between the neck and shoulder; and the force of the blow prostrated + the bridegroom on the floor. Montrose entered at one side of the anteroom. + The bridal company, alarmed at the noise, were in equal apprehension and + surprise; but ere Montrose could almost see what had happened, Allan + M’Aulay had rushed past him, and descended the castle stairs like + lightning. “Guards, shut the gate!” exclaimed Montrose—“Seize him—kill + him, if he resists!—He shall die, if he were my brother!” + </p> + <p> + But Allan prostrated, with a second blow of his dagger, a sentinel who was + upon duty—-traversed the camp like a mountain-deer, though pursued + by all who caught the alarm—threw himself into the river, and, + swimming to the opposite side, was soon lost among the woods. In the + course of the same evening, his brother Angus and his followers left + Montrose’s camp, and, taking the road homeward, never again rejoined him. + </p> + <p> + Of Allan himself it is said, that, in a wonderfully short space after the + deed was committed, he burst into a room in the Castle of Inverary, where + Argyle was sitting in council, and flung on the table his bloody dirk. + </p> + <p> + “Is it the blood of James Grahame?” said Argyle, a ghastly expression of + hope mixing with the terror which the sudden apparition naturally excited. + </p> + <p> + “It is the blood of his minion,” answered M’Aulay—“It is the blood + which I was predestined to shed, though I would rather have spilt my own.” + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:60%;"> + <img src="images/0669m.jpg" style="width:100%;" alt="0669m " /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0669.jpg" style="width:100%;" ><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + Having thus spoken, he turned and left the castle, and from that moment + nothing certain is known of his fate. As the boy Kenneth, with three of + the Children of the Mist, were seen soon afterwards to cross Lochfine, it + is supposed they dogged his course, and that he perished by their hand in + some obscure wilderness. Another opinion maintains, that Allan M’Aulay + went abroad and died a monk of the Carthusian order. But nothing beyond + bare presumption could ever be brought in support of either opinion. + </p> + <p> + His vengeance was much less complete than he probably fancied; for + Menteith, though so severely wounded as to remain long in a dangerous + state, was, by having adopted Major Dalgetty’s fortunate recommendation of + a cuirass as a bridal-garment, happily secured from the worst consequences + of the blow. But his services were lost to Montrose; and it was thought + best, that he should be conveyed with his intended countess, now truly a + mourning bride, and should accompany his wounded father-in-law to the + castle of Sir Duncan at Ardenvohr. Dalgetty followed them to the water’s + edge, reminding Menteith of the necessity of erecting a sconce on Drumsnab + to cover his lady’s newly-acquired inheritance. + </p> + <p> + They performed their voyage in safety, and Menteith was in a few weeks so + well in health, as to be united to Annot in the castle of her father. + </p> + <p> + The Highlanders were somewhat puzzled to reconcile Menteith’s recovery + with the visions of the second sight, and the more experienced Seers were + displeased with him for not having died. But others thought the credit of + the vision sufficiently fulfilled, by the wound inflicted by the hand, and + with the weapon, foretold; and all were of opinion, that the incident of + the ring, with the death’s head, related to the death of the bride’s + father, who did not survive her marriage many months. The incredulous + held, that all this was idle dreaming, and that Allan’s supposed vision + was but a consequence of the private suggestions of his own passion, + which, having long seen in Menteith a rival more beloved than himself, + struggled with his better nature, and impressed upon him, as it were + involuntarily, the idea of killing his competitor. + </p> + <p> + Menteith did not recover sufficiently to join Montrose during his brief + and glorious career; and when that heroic general disbanded his army and + retired from Scotland, Menteith resolved to adopt the life of privacy, + which he led till the Restoration. After that happy event, he occupied a + situation in the land befitting his rank, lived long, happy alike in + public regard and in domestic affection, and died at a good old age. + </p> + <p> + Our DRAMATIS PERSONAE have been so limited, that, excepting Montrose, + whose exploits and fate are the theme of history, we have only to mention + Sir Dugald Dalgetty. This gentleman continued, with the most rigorous + punctuality, to discharge his duty, and to receive his pay, until he was + made prisoner, among others, upon the field of Philiphaugh. He was + condemned to share the fate of his fellow-officers upon that occasion, who + were doomed to death rather by denunciations from the pulpit, than the + sentence either of civil or military tribunal; their blood being + considered as a sort of sin-offering to take away the guilt of the land, + and the fate imposed upon the Canaanites, under a special dispensation, + being impiously and cruelly applied to them. + </p> + <p> + Several Lowland officers, in the service of the Covenanters, interceded + for Dalgetty on this occasion, representing him as a person whose skill + would be useful in their army, and who would be readily induced to change + his service. But on this point they found Sir Dugald unexpectedly + obstinate. He had engaged with the King for a certain term, and, till that + was expired, his principles would not permit any shadow of changing. The + Covenanters, again, understood no such nice distinction, and he was in the + utmost danger of falling a martyr, not to this or that political + principle, but merely to his own strict ideas of a military enlistment. + Fortunately, his friends discovered, by computation, that there remained + but a fortnight to elapse of the engagement he had formed, and to which, + though certain it was never to be renewed, no power on earth could make + him false. With some difficulty they procured a reprieve for this short + space, after which they found him perfectly willing to come under any + engagements they chose to dictate. He entered the service of the Estates + accordingly, and wrought himself forward to be Major in Gilbert Ker’s + corps, commonly called the Kirk’s Own Regiment of Horse. Of his farther + history we know nothing, until we find him in possession of his paternal + estate of Drumthwacket, which he acquired, not by the sword, but by a + pacific intermarriage with Hannah Strachan, a matron somewhat stricken in + years, the widow of the Aberdeenshire Covenanter. + </p> + <p> + Sir Dugald is supposed to have survived the Revolution, as traditions of + no very distant date represent him as cruising about in that country, very + old, very deaf, and very full of interminable stories about the immortal + Gustavus Adolphus, the Lion of the North, and the bulwark of the + Protestant Faith. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + READER! THE TALES OF MY LANDLORD ARE NOW FINALLY CLOSED, closed, and it + was my purpose to have addressed thee in the vein of Jedediah + Cleishbotham; but, like Horam the son of Asmar, and all other imaginary + story-tellers, Jedediah has melted into thin air. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cleishbotham bore the same resemblance to Ariel, as he at whose voice + he rose doth to the sage Prospero; and yet, so fond are we of the fictions + of our own fancy, that I part with him, and all his imaginary localities, + with idle reluctance. I am aware this is a feeling in which the reader + will little sympathize; but he cannot be more sensible than I am, that + sufficient varieties have now been exhibited of the Scottish character, to + exhaust one individual’s powers of observation, and that to persist would + be useless and tedious. I have the vanity to suppose, that the popularity + of these Novels has shown my countrymen, and their peculiarities, in + lights which were new to the Southern reader; and that many, hitherto + indifferent upon the subject, have been induced to read Scottish history, + from the allusions to it in these works of fiction. + </p> + <p> + I retire from the field, conscious that there remains behind not only a + large harvest, but labourers capable of gathering it in. More than one + writer has of late displayed talents of this description; and if the + present author, himself a phantom, may be permitted to distinguish a + brother, or perhaps a sister shadow, he would mention, in particular, the + author of the very lively work entitled MARRIAGE. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0027" id="link2H_4_0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + IV. APPENDIX. + </h2> + <p> + No. I + </p> + <p> + The scarcity of my late friend’s poem may be an excuse for adding the + spirited conclusion of Clan Alpin’s vow. The Clan Gregor has met in the + ancient church of Balquidder. The head of Drummond-Ernoch is placed on the + altar, covered for a time with the banner of the tribe. The Chief of the + tribe advances to the altar: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + And pausing, on the banner gazed; + Then cried in scorn, his finger raised, + “This was the boon of Scotland’s king;” + And, with a quick and angry fling, + Tossing the pageant screen away, + The dead man’s head before him lay. + Unmoved he scann’d the visage o’er, + The clotted locks were dark with gore, + The features with convulsion grim, + The eyes contorted, sunk, and dim. + But unappall’d, in angry mood, + With lowering brow, unmoved he stood. + Upon the head his bared right hand + He laid, the other grasp’d his brand: + Then kneeling, cried, “To Heaven I swear + This deed of death I own, and share; + As truly, fully mine, as though + This my right hand had dealt the blow: + Come then, our foeman, one, come all; + If to revenge this caitiffs fall + One blade is bared, one bow is drawn, + Mine everlasting peace I pawn, + To claim from them, or claim from him, + In retribution, limb for limb. + In sudden fray, or open strife, + This steel shall render life for life.” + He ceased; and at his beckoning nod, + The clansmen to the altar trod; + And not a whisper breathed around, + And nought was heard of mortal sound, + Save from the clanking arms they bore, + That rattled on the marble floor; + And each, as he approach’d in haste, + Upon the scalp his right hand placed; + With livid lip, and gather’d brow, + Each uttered, in his turn, the vow. + Fierce Malcolm watch’d the passing scene, + And search’d them through with glances keen; + Then dash’d a tear-drop from his eye; + Unhid it came—he knew not why. + Exulting high, he towering stood: + “Kinsmen,” he cried, “of Alpin’s blood, + And worthy of Clan Alpin’s name, + Unstain’d by cowardice and shame, + E’en do, spare nocht, in time of ill + Shall be Clan Alpin’s legend still!” + </pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0028" id="link2H_4_0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + No. II. + </h2> + <p> + It has been disputed whether the Children of the Mist were actual + MacGregors, or whether they were not outlaws named MacDonald, belonging to + Ardnamurchan. The following act of the Privy Council seems to decide the + question:— + </p> + <p> + “Edinburgh, 4th February, 1589. + </p> + <p> + “The same day, the Lords of Secret Council being crediblie informed of ye + cruel and mischievous proceeding of ye wicked Clangrigor, so lang + continueing in blood, slaughters, herships, manifest reifts, and stouths + committed upon his Hieness’ peaceable and good subjects; inhabiting ye + countries ewest ye brays of ye Highlands, thir money years bybgone; but + specially heir after ye cruel murder of umqll Jo. Drummond of + Drummoneyryuch, his Majesties proper tennant and ane of his fosters of + Glenartney, committed upon ye day of last bypast, be certain of ye said + clan, be ye council and determination of ye haill, avow and to defend ye + authors yrof qoever wald persew for revenge of ye same, qll ye said Jo. + was occupied in seeking of venison to his Hieness, at command of Pat. Lord + Drummond, stewart of Stratharne, and principal forrester of Clenartney; + the Queen, his Majesties dearest spouse, being yn shortlie looked for to + arrive in this realm. Likeas, after ye murder committed, ye authors yrof + cutted off ye said umqll Jo. Drummond’s head, and carried the same to the + Laird of M’Grigor, who, and the haill surname of M’Grigors, purposely + conveined upon the Sunday yrafter, at the Kirk of Buchquhidder; qr they + caused ye said umqll John’s head to be pnted to ym, and yr avowing ye sd + murder to have been committed by yr communion, council, and determination, + laid yr hands upon the pow, and in eithnik, and barbarous manner, swear to + defend ye authors of ye sd murder, in maist proud contempt of our sovrn + Lord and his authoritie, and in evil example to others wicked limmaris to + do ye like, give ys sall be suffered to remain unpunished.” + </p> + <p> + Then follows a commission to the Earls of Huntly, Argyle, Athole, + Montrose, Pat. Lord Drummond, Ja. Commendator of Incheffray, And. Campbel + of Lochinnel, Duncan Campbel of Ardkinglas, Lauchlane M’Intosh of + Dunnauchtane, Sir Jo. Murray of Tullibarden, knt., Geo. Buchanan of that + Ilk, and And. M’Farlane of Ariquocher, to search for and apprehend Alaster + M’Grigor of Glenstre (and a number of others nominatim), “and all others + of the said Clangrigor, or ye assistars, culpable of the said odious + murther, or of thift, reset of thift, herships, and sornings, qrever they + may be apprehended. And if they refuse to be taken, or flees to strengths + and houses, to pursue and assege them with fire and sword; and this + commission to endure for the space of three years.” + </p> + <p> + Such was the system of police in 1589; and such the state of Scotland + nearly thirty years after the Reformation. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0029" id="link2H_4_0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + V. NOTES. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0030" id="link2H_4_0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Note I.—FIDES ET FIDUCIA SUNT RELATIVA. + </h2> + <p> + The military men of the times agreed upon dependencies of honour, as they + called them, with all the metaphysical argumentation of civilians, or + school divines. + </p> + <p> + The English officer, to whom Sir James Turner was prisoner after the rout + at Uttoxeter, demanded his parole of honour not to go beyond the wall of + Hull without liberty. “He brought me the message himself,—I told him + I was ready to do so, provided he removed his guards from me, for FIDES ET + FIDUCIA SUNT RELATIVA; and, if he took my word for my fidelity, he was + obliged to trust it, otherwise, it was needless for him to seek it, either + to give trust to my word, which I would not break, or his own guards, who + I supposed would not deceive him. In this manner I dealt with him, because + I knew him to be a scholar.”—TURNER’S MEMOIRS, p. 80. The English + officer allowed the strength of the reasoning; but that concise reasoner, + Cromwell, soon put an end to the dilemma: “Sir James Turner must give his + parole, or be laid in irons.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0031" id="link2H_4_0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Note II.—WRAITHS. + </h2> + <p> + A species of apparition, similar to what the Germans call a Double-Ganger, + was believed in by the Celtic tribes, and is still considered as an emblem + of misfortune or death. Mr. Kirke (See Note to ROB ROY,), the minister of + Aberfoil, who will no doubt be able to tell us more of the matter should + he ever come back from Fairy-land, gives us the following:— + </p> + <p> + “Some men of that exalted sight, either by art or nature, have told me + they have seen at these meetings a double man, or the shape of some man in + two places, that is, a superterranean and a subterranean inhabitant + perfectly resembling one another in all points, whom he, notwithstanding, + could easily distinguish one fro another by some secret tokens and + operations, and so go speak to the man his neighbour and familiar, passing + by the apparition or resemblance of him. They avouch that every element + and different state of being have animals resembling those of another + element, as there be fishes at sea resembling Monks of late order in all + their hoods and dresses, so as the Roman invention of good and bad daemons + and guardian angels particularly assigned, is called by them ane ignorant + mistake, springing only from this originall. They call this reflex man a + Co-Walker, every way like the man, as a twin-brother and companion + haunting him as his shadow, as is that seen and known among men resembling + the originall, both before and after the originall is dead, and was also + often seen of old to enter a hous, by which the people knew that the + person of that liknes was to visit them within a few days. This copy, + echo, or living picture, goes at last to his own herd. It accompanied that + person so long and frequently for ends best known to its selve, whether to + guard him from the secret assaults of some of its own folks, or only as an + sportfull ape to counterfeit all his actions.”—KIRKE’S SECRET + COMMOMWEALTH, p. 3. + </p> + <p> + The two following apparitions, resembling the vision of Allan M’Aulay in + the text, occur in Theophilus Insulanus (Rev. Mr. Fraser’s Treatise on the + Second Sight, Relations x. and xvii.):— + </p> + <p> + “Barbara Macpherson, relict of the deceased Mr. Alexander MacLeod, late + minister of St. Kilda, informed me the natives of that island had a + particular kind of second sight, which is always a forerunner of their + approaching end. Some months before they sicken, they are haunted with an + apparition, resembling themselves in all respects as to their person, + features, or clothing. This image, seemingly animated, walks with them in + the field in broad daylight; and if they are employed in delving, + harrowing, seed-sowing, or any other occupation, they are at the same time + mimicked by this ghostly visitant. My informer added further that having + visited a sick person of the inhabitants, she had the curiosity to enquire + of him, if at any time he had seen any resemblance of himself as above + described; he answered in the affirmative, and told her, that to make + farther trial, as he was going out of his house of a morning, he put on + straw-rope garters instead of those he formerly used, and having gone to + the fields, his other self appeared in such garters. The conclusion was, + the sick man died of that ailment, and she no longer questioned the truth + of those remarkable presages.” + </p> + <p> + “Margaret MacLeod, an honest woman advanced in years, informed me, that + when she was a young woman in the family of Grishornish, a dairy-maid, who + daily used to herd the calves in a park close to the house, observed, at + different times, a woman resembling herself in shape and attire, walking + solitarily at no great distance from her, and being surprised at the + apparition, to make further trial, she put the back part of her upper + garment foremost, and anon the phantom was dressed in the same manner, + which made her uneasy, believing it portended some fatal consequence to + herself. In a short time thereafter she was seized with a fever, which + brought her to her end, and before her sickness and on her deathbed, + declared the second sight to several.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 1461 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/1461-h/images/0651.jpg b/1461-h/images/0651.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..1cf52f8 --- /dev/null +++ b/1461-h/images/0651.jpg diff --git a/1461-h/images/0651m.jpg b/1461-h/images/0651m.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..ceef40a --- /dev/null +++ b/1461-h/images/0651m.jpg diff --git a/1461-h/images/0669.jpg b/1461-h/images/0669.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..646799c --- /dev/null +++ b/1461-h/images/0669.jpg diff --git a/1461-h/images/0669m.jpg b/1461-h/images/0669m.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..c75fe07 --- /dev/null +++ b/1461-h/images/0669m.jpg diff --git a/1461-h/images/0681.jpg b/1461-h/images/0681.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..289756f --- /dev/null +++ b/1461-h/images/0681.jpg diff --git a/1461-h/images/0681m.jpg b/1461-h/images/0681m.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..5997c5c --- /dev/null +++ b/1461-h/images/0681m.jpg diff --git a/1461-h/images/0795.jpg b/1461-h/images/0795.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..510877f --- /dev/null +++ b/1461-h/images/0795.jpg diff --git a/1461-h/images/0795m.jpg b/1461-h/images/0795m.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..0b01ed1 --- /dev/null +++ b/1461-h/images/0795m.jpg |
