The youth had answered him civilly enough that he was Kenneth Stewart of Bailienochy, and that he was come to offer his sword to the King.
Thereupon he had interested himself in the lad's behalf and had gained him a lieutenancy in his own company.

Why he was attracted to a youth on whom never before had he set eyes was a matter that puzzled him not a little.

Now he held, he thought, the explanation of it.

It was the way of Fate.
This boy was sent into his life by a Heaven that at last showed compassion for the deep wrongs he had suffered; sent him as a key wherewith, should the need occur, to open him the gates of Castle Marleigh.
In long strides he paced the chamber, turning the matter over in his mind.

Aye, he would use the lad should the need arise.