"I am used to it, and to live in a hut on the moors would in no way be to my fancy; and if I cannot get a place where I have comrades to talk to, and crack a joke with, I would rather cross the seas, take service with an Irish chieftain, or travel to Wales, where I hear men say there is fighting." "You need not go very far, if it is fighting that you want," the man said.

"Those who ride with the Bairds have their share, and more, of it.

If you like to stop here a day or two, I will take an opportunity to talk to William Baird, or to one of his sons, if I find a chance; but I cannot take you up there, now.

At the best of times they are not fond of visitors, and would be less so than usual, now." Other armed men had come in, while the conversation was going on.

No further attention was paid to the travellers.