"An old story, my lord," said Gray, rising.
"True; in the days of Robert II.," added Douglas, rising also.
"In 1385," observed Gray, with a scarcely perceptible smile.
"I forget."——"Though you forget many things, my lord," said Gray, rashly and impetuously, "do not imagine that you or they are forgotten."
"Does this imply a threat, my cock-laird of the north country?" asked Douglas, with profound disdain.
"As you please—I am a plain soldier."
A ferocious expression darkened the earl's face; but Gray drew back a pace, and laid a hand significantly on his tabard.
"Sir Patrick Gray, I advise you to get your horse and begone!" thundered Douglas, starting to his feet. "Without there! Order Sir Patrick's horse to the barbican-gate!"
"But your answer to the king?" said Gray, tightening his waistbelt, and preparing for a sudden start.
"That I shall convey in person to Stirling."