It is true that we are a royal city, and that the burghers of Edinburgh have their rights and their liberties; nevertheless, it were dangerous to talk loud concerning nobles.

We are quiet people all, and none here wear the cognizance of Douglas or Albany.

Still, it would do me much harm, were it reported that there had been talk here concerning such powerful nobles; and though the Douglas might care little what was said of him, methinks that there are others--I name no names--who would spare neither great nor small who incurred their resentment." "I knew not that we were talking loudly, John Ker; and methinks that none, save the two men at the near table, have heard our words; and they look honest fellows enough.

Still, what you say is right, and while we may talk of these things by our firesides, 'tis best to keep a silent tongue, while abroad." "You need not disquiet yourself about us," Roger broke in.

"We have no communion with lords or princes; and, so that we can drive our herds safely down into Cumberland, we care not whether one noble or another has the king's ear.