"True, sir," said Gray, "and hence my mission here in Flanders."
"How; I was just about to inquire," observed the duke; "seek you knight's service?"
"Yes; fortune has made me a free lance."
"And ready to follow any banner?"
"Yes; provided it find me in food, horse, and armour."
"Then follow me," said Albany, "and ere long, my friend, I may find work for your sword at home."
"At home; do you mean in Scotland?"
"Aye, in Scotland; how now, Achanna, why the devil dost twitch my sleeve?"
"As a warning that your grace should be wary."
"Here thought and speech are free. True, we have not eaten a peck of salt with our new friend, the laird of Luaig, but at this distance from that bloody rock which lies before Stirling gate, we may trust him nevertheless," said the reckless Albany, draining his wine cup at a draught; "wilt follow me, Luaig—is it a bargain?" he added, holding out his hand.