The third was tall and red-haired, tanned of countenance and lean as a greyhound.
He wore trews of a tartan which Mr.Lovel, trained in such matters, recognised as that of the house of Atholl.
Of the three he only recognised the leader, and the recognition sobered him.

This was that Talbot, commonly known from his swarthiness as the Crow, who was Ormonde's most trusted lieutenant.

He had once worked with him; he knew his fierce temper, his intractable honesty.

His bemused wits turned desperately to concocting a conciliatory tale.
But he seemed to be unrecognised.

The three stared at him in wild-eyed amazement.
"Who the devil are you, sir ?" the Highlander stammered.
Mr.Lovel this time brought off his bow.