“You shall have the best boat in my possession,” said MacLeod leaving them for a moment to give his command.
In a short time a large boat with ten oarsmen was waiting at the landing.
“They are ready for you,” said MacLeod with an effort at geniality, which gave a most sinister effect to his face. “I am sorry to bid you good-bye, but I hope you bear away with you no ill will against Dunvegan.”
“Sir,” said the king ignoring his compliments, “that boat will not do for me.”
“It is the best I have,” said MacLeod looking at his truculent guest with new anxiety.
“The boat you must bring to the landing is the twenty-six oared barge, which Malcolm MacLeod builded so well.”
The MacLeod stepped back two paces.
“That boat is for the king,” he said in a voice scarcely above a whisper.
“Yes, it is for the king, therefore the king demands it. Give the order instantly that it be brought to the landing, well manned with twenty-six rowers.”
All colour left MacLeod’s face. His next words were to MacDonald.