Behind them followed the train of laden asses, and small carts or TUMBLERS, as they were called in that country, on which were laid the decrepit and the helpless, the aged and infant part of the exiled community.

The women in their red cloaks and straw hats, the elder children with bare heads and bare feet, and almost naked bodies, had the immediate care of the little caravan.

The road was narrow, running between two broken banks of sand, and Mr.Bertram's servant rode forward, smacking his whip with an air of authority, and motioning to the drivers to allow free passage to their betters.

His signal was unattended to.

He then called to the men who lounged idly on before, 'Stand to your beasts' heads, and make room for the Laird to pass.' 'He shall have his share of the road,' answered a male gipsy from under his slouched and large-brimmed hat, and without raising his face, 'and he shall have nae mair; the highway is as free to our cuddies as to his gelding.' The tone of the man being sulky, and even menacing, Mr.Bertram thought it best to put his dignity in his pocket, and pass by the procession quietly, on such space as they chose to leave for his accommodation, which was narrow enough.