With the final glimpse of her gray skirt the Highlander came back to the
present. "Singly I could have answered for them all, one after the other,"
he said stiffly. "Together they had the advantage. I pay my debt and give
you thanks, sir."

"That is an ugly cut across your forehead," replied Haward. "Mr. Ker had
best bring you a basin of water. Or stay! I am going to my lodging. Come
with me, and Juba shall dress the wound properly."

MacLean turned his keen blue eyes upon him. "Am I to understand that you
give me a command, or that you extend to me an invitation? In the latter
case, I should prefer"--

"Then take it as a command," said Haward imperturbably. "I wish your
company. Mr. Ker, good-day; I will buy the piece of plate which you showed
me yesterday."

The two moved down the room together, but at the door MacLean, with his
face set like a flint, stood aside, and Haward passed out first, then
waited for the other to come up with him.

"When I drink a cup I drain it to the dregs," said the Scot. "I walk
behind the man who commands me. The way, you see, is not broad enough for
you and me and hatred."

"Then let hatred lag behind," answered Haward coolly. "I have negroes to
walk at my heels when I go abroad. I take you for a gentleman, accept your
enmity an it please you, but protest against standing here in the hot
sunshine."