We bowed, but I supplemented the courtesy by extending my hand, for I was in no doubt for a moment as to his identity, his likeness to his sister Margaret being remarkable.
“Captain Nairn is well known to me,” I said, laughing. “I could even name him more intimately.”
“Indeed, and what might that be?” he returned, on his guard.
“Archie.”
“God bless my soul! Who are you, sir? I haven't heard that name for ten years!” he exclaimed, in the greatest surprise.
“I can go even further. I can name a certain mission which ended in Fort William.”
“Sir,” he answered, with grave dignity, “I dislike mystifications. Who told you these things?”
“One Maxwell.”
“Have a care, sir; you are naming one to whom I am under deep obligation.”
“I am naming one, Captain Nairn, who will be as pleased to be of service to you now as then.”