"And I think we must ask you to promise not to think of ever running away from your grandparents," said the Lady.
That seemed to strike Tam as a large order.
"I wouldna like to bide on the croft when I get bigger."
"Why, what do you wish to be when you grow bigger?"
"I want to be a soldier, like my father."
Yetta drew a pained breath; Donal's lips twitched.
"You would not like him to go for a soldier?" queried the Lady.
"Baith my sons focht and deed for their kintra," said Donal.
"And you would like to keep your grandson to comfort you in your old age?"
The old folks bowed; their trembling lips could hardly frame an audible "Yes."