I spoke at once to his men in Gaelic, who held themselves ready for attack the moment we appeared.
"Skye men! I am a McDonell, of Glengarry. I and mine have no quarrel with you, but this gentleman and I have a matter of blood between us. Take no part in it, then, for it is no affair of yours, and it will not be stayed in any case."
Then, either because they had small stomach for useless fighting, or, what is the more likely, that they saw it was a private matter and did not touch their honour, they drew to one side in silence with Neil and Duncan.
Creach understood what I was at, and as I threw off my coat and vest he did the like.
A fierce joy was rising in me. "Come, sir!" I said, and he fell into position.
He was a good swordsman enough, but my wrist was of iron and my heart of fire, and the tinkle and grate of the steel was like music to my ear.
He was fighting for time, waiting to see my play, and parried with great judgment, but at last I reached in at him and touched him above the right breast.
"That is for Aquapendente!" I cried, in satisfaction, as I saw the stain grow and redden on his shirt.
In a little I touched him again, on the opposite side. "That is for Rome!" and I was completely master of myself, for I held his life in my hands, like a ball, to throw away when I pleased.
He said not a word, but fought on with the same courage, but it was hopeless. Again I got in at him just where I had planned, and shouted in my joy, "That is for Loch Broom!"