“I think in Lord Traquair’s own castle, but of that I am not sure.”
“This is interesting. We shall, of course, try to prevent any messenger reaching the King; but I do not understand why you connect the incident at the inn with your detention.”
“There was a great splore about a spy that escaped, and I have no doubt, if he saw me there, and heard the proposal made to me, he might well have brought my name and description across the Border. At least that was the way I reasoned it out with myself.”
“It is very like you are right. Spies, unfortunately, seem to be necessary when a country is in a state of war. Many unjustifiable acts are then committed, including the arresting of innocent men; but I am anxious nothing shall be done that will give just cause of offence to Scotland; a God-fearing country, and a friendly. When such injustice happens, as it has happened in your case, I try to make amend. How far south do you propose to travel?”
“I may go the length of Manchester or Birmingham. The distance and the time will depend on the state of trade.”
“If you will tell me places you intend to visit, I will include them in the pass I shall now write for you.”
“That I cannot say just at the moment. I wish to follow trade wherever it leads me.”
“Then an inclusive pass, extending as far south as Manchester, will meet your needs?”
“It will more than meet them, General,” said Armstrong with supreme indifference.
The Commander took up his pen, but paused, and, still shading his face, scrutinized the man before him.