"Such were the words that Sheridan said."
"It sounded unlike Knoidart, but I could not hear."
"It was Knoidart."
For long Muckle John tried to read truth or lies in his face. But the expression of Lovat was guileless.
"If you have lied," said Muckle John at last, "I will hound you down."
Lovat gently drew the palms of his hands together.
"Why should I lie?" he said.
"Then good-bye, my lord, and look to your papers, for to-morrow will bring dragoons and..."
"Enough," broke in Lovat, "I am not afraid."
He sat perfectly still until Muckle John had gone down the stairs, then with a grim smile he set about sorting his papers.