“I was,” answered the prisoner, in a bold and resolute tone.
“Were you armed?”
“I was not—I went in my calling as a preacher of God’s word, to encourage them that drew the sword in His cause.”
“In other words, to aid and abet the rebels?” said the Duke.
“Thou hast spoken it,” replied the prisoner.
“Well, then,” continued the interrogator, “let us know if you saw John Balfour of Burley among the party?—I presume you know him?”
“I bless God that I do know him,” replied Macbriar; “he is a zealous and a sincere Christian.”
“And when and where did you last see this pious personage?” was the query which immediately followed.
“I am here to answer for myself,” said Macbriar, in the same dauntless manner, “and not to endanger others.”
“We shall know,” said Dalzell, “how to make you find your tongue.”