For indeed it seemed not likely that Louis was fomenting any rebellion against the arms of King James, who, when Wat and Scarlett left the harbor of Lis-op-Zee, ruled unquestioned at Whitehall.
But Scarlett's diplomatic answer was accepted without reserve.
"Friends of the true king and officers of his Christian Majesty of France are ever friends of Keppoch's," he cried, striding forward frankly and giving a hand to each.
Scarlett felt a strong desire to whistle as the chief revealed himself.
"Coll o' the Cows!" he muttered, softly; "we are indeed in the gled's claws this day."
For Coll o' the Cows was the wildest chief as well as the most noted cattle-lifter beyond the Highland line, and though now apparently standing for "the Good Cause" (whatever that might be), he had all his life hitherto stood entirely for the very excellent cause of his own vested right to drive other folks' cattle and eat other folks' beef.
"Doubtless you will have seen my Lord Dundee?" said Keppoch to Scarlett, whom, very evidently, he considered the leading spirit of the two.
Wat pricked up his ears.
"Is Colonel Graham here?" he said, looking inquiringly at the chief.
Keppoch frowned, and for the first time looked a little suspicious.