[following formidable title:--MONRO his Expedition with the worthy by Sir Walter Scott]@TWC D-Link bookfollowing formidable title:--MONRO his Expedition with the worthy CHAPTER XXIII 4/17
Montrose was somewhat surprised, but scorning to testify displeasure, he left Sir Dugald to pursue his own course. This carried him instantly to the chamber of the bride-groom, who, amidst the scanty wardrobe which his camp-equipage afforded, was seeking for such articles as might appear to the best advantage upon the approaching occasion.
Sir Dugald entered, and paid his compliments, with a very grave face, upon his approaching happiness, which, he said, "he was very sorry he was prevented from witnessing." "In plain truth," said he, "I should but disgrace the ceremony, seeing that I lack a bridal garment.
Rents, and open seams, and tatters at elbows in the apparel of the assistants, might presage a similar solution of continuity in your matrimonial happiness--and to say truth, my lord, you yourself must partly have the blame of this disappointment, in respect you sent me upon a fool's errand to get a buff-coat out of the booty taken by the Camerons, whereas you might as well have sent me to fetch a pound of fresh butter out of a black dog's throat.
I had no answer, my lord, but brandished dirks and broadswords, and a sort of growling and jabbering in what they call their language.
For my part, I believe these Highlanders to be no better than absolute pagans, and have been much scandalized by the manner in which my acquaintance, Ranald MacEagh, was pleased to beat his final march, a little while since." In Menteith's state of mind, disposed to be pleased with everything, and everybody, the grave complaint of Sir Dugald furnished additional amusement.
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