"Mackenzie must be sent upon his business," she said, "and what is more, he must never reach the Fort."
"One ploy at a time," said Castleleathers, "and here goes for the first."
With that he tip-toed back and replaced the dispatch, then with a heavy tread walked down the passage, and knocked upon the door.
"Who is there?" cried the Duke starting from sleep.
"Neil Mackenzie, your Highness."
Cumberland pushed the chair about.
In the room he saw a great man standing muffled to his face in a plaid. He had the bearing of a robber chief, but one never knew with these terrible Highlanders.
"I 'ave 'eard ov you," said the Duke civilly enough, despite his harsh Teutonic voice, "two hours since I received a despatch from Captain Strange referring to some trouble between you and Muckle John."
"My people," said Castleleathers, turning his face to the shadow, "have received an affront which can only be wiped out in one way. We are prepared to serve the Government with loyalty and we look to your Highness to remember it."
The Duke took up the paper and read it through very carefully.