"So you would fain take service with me?" he said.
"I want a master," Oswald replied, "and from what I hear, I am more likely to see fighting, under you, than under any other on the border."
"And you were with George Dunbar?"
"I was," Oswald replied. "But indeed, the service was not altogether to my taste, for we were always pent up in Dunbar; and, save in a street broil, there was no need to draw a sword. I was glad enough to leave his service, though in truth, I have fared but badly, since."
"Now do you question him, Rotherglen."
A number of questions were put to Oswald, concerning the names of the streets, the direction, the name of the principal inns, and the approaches to the castle. All these were satisfactorily replied to.
"He knows Dunbar, there is no question about that.
"And you can use your arms?"
"I think so."
"We will have a trial," Baird said. "A man is no use to me, who cannot use his weapon. Send Robert here."