"And now, my friend," said the officer, "you will please inform me how many men your master has with him at present."
Dougal looked in every direction except at the querist, and began to answer, "She canna just be sure about that."
"Look at me, you Highland dog," said the officer, "and remember your life depends on your answer. How many rogues had that outlawed scoundrel with him when you left him?"
"Ou, no aboon sax rogues when I was gane."
"And where are the rest of his banditti?"
"Gane wi' the Lieutenant agane ta westland carles."
"Against the westland clans?" said the Captain. "Umph—that is likely enough; and what rogue's errand were you despatched upon?"
"Just to see what your honour and ta gentlemen red-coats were doing doun here at ta Clachan."
"The creature will prove fause-hearted, after a'," said the Bailie, who by this time had planted himself close behind me; "it's lucky I didna pit mysell to expenses anent him."
"And now, my friend," said the Captain, "let us understand each other. You have confessed yourself a spy, and should string up to the next tree—But come, if you will do me one good turn, I will do you another. You, Donald—you shall just, in the way of kindness, carry me and a small party to the place where you left your master, as I wish to speak a few words with him on serious affairs; and I'll let you go about your business, and give you five guineas to boot."