“All right. But don’t lose time about it.”
“Have na fear.”
“Bring a big drink—a stiff drink. The longer I am without it the more I want.”
A few moments later Budthorne left the cottage by the front door. There was no moon, but millions of bright stars gleamed in the dome of heaven. The wind had fallen with the coming of night, but although it did not feel as cold, the temperature was much lower. To the east, close at hand, slumbered Lochleven; to the north, farther removed, rose the rugged Ochill Hills.
It was a night of peace and repose, with no suggestion of danger lurking near.
Within the cottage the merry party chatted and laughed about the supper table. Not until Budthorne had been absent some time did Nadia think of him again; but at last she began to worry why he did not return.
Finally she rose from the table, saying she would see what was detaining him.
“He has not been quite well of late,” she explained. “Of course I’m foolish to worry about him, but I can’t help it. He must be in his room. I’ll return in a few moments.”
She did return in a few moments, a frightened look on her pale face.
“He’s gone!” she said. “I can’t find him!”