"These wars are ruin to us, and we have had the English at the gates of Dunbar over many times, already; and the town sacked, and burnt over our heads, more than once.
Though I do not say that it might not have been worse, for our earls have ever stood aloof, as much as possible, and have often inclined towards the English side.

Still, even then it is bad enough, for the whole country, from Berwick, has often been wasted to check the progress of the armies, and our trade well-nigh ruined.

A pest on all wars, say I!" "And which way, think you, that the present earl's leanings would go ?" "I think not about it, one way or the other.

My business is to sell food and liquor, the earl's to take part in affairs of state.

In days like these, it is quite enough for each man to attend to his own business, without troubling about that of other people; more especially when that other is a powerful noble, who thinks little enough of slitting a tongue that wags too freely.
"No, no, lad; John Sanderson is no fool, and knows better than to open his mouth, touching the affairs of great nobles.