Davy, although without knowing distinctly why or wherefore now left the house with his friend Archy, when the latter, as promised, acquainted him with the other mission he had to execute—namely, the delivering the ring to Sir John Elphingstone, at the bishop's castle, whither Davy subsequently accompanied him.
On arriving at the lordly mansion of the prelate, Archy inquired of a servant if Sir John was there, and was told that he was.
"Then," said he, "be sae guid, freend, as tak up this bit trantalum o' a thing till him, and I'll wait whar I am till I hear frae him."
In a few minutes after Sir John appeared, and, accosting Archy, said, "Well, my friend, what commands have you brought along with this?" producing the ring.
"The person that gied me that, sir," said Archy, "desired me to tell you to come along wi' me."
"And, pray, where are you from, friend?"
"Ou, no far awa, sir," said Archy; "just frae Govan, owre the way there."
"Very well, I'll accompany you. But who's this you have with you?" inquired the knight, looking at Davy Linn, who stood close by.
"That lad's name, sir," said Archy, "is Davy Linn; he belangs to Partick, up there, sir. He's a fine lad, Davy—a fine, decent, canny lad, sir."
"I have no reason to doubt it," replied Sir John; "but what does he here with you?"