“Did ye mark Lochiel’s coat?” he said eagerly. “With the gold braid on it—and his satin vest and gloves like the King? Lochiel’s a great man.”
Ronald gave no answer.
“And his sword,” continued Ian. “An Andrea Ferrara with a basket hilt—”
“I did not mark it,” answered Ronald without looking round, but Ian was not to be repulsed.
“Macdonald o’ Keppoch has a red coat like that—of the fine cloth with gilt buttons—I saw it when I was in Glenroy—Keppoch got it when he sacked Inverary and he carries it about with him, valuing it greatly.” His eyes shone with a fierce envy. “I would have a coat like that, and boots with buckles and fringes.”
“Lochiel bought those clothes in King Charlie’s time—they’re years old,” returned Ronald scornfully.
But Ian cast a wistful glance at his weather-stained plaid. “Glengarry has an Andrea Ferrara,” he said, with eager blue eyes on his brother.
“Let him keep it,” returned Ronald shortly. “I am content with my bow and my dirk.”
“You are in an ill mood,” said Ian. “I remember when ye could not sleep for longings such as these—and when ye found nothing o’ wearing apparel in Jock Campbell’s burning house ye raged extremely.”
Ronald turned fiercely.