Sir Patrick paused for an instant. "We have heard," said he, "of
the Lord of Johnstone, and of his followers. Little is to be had
by meddling with them. Smith, tell me, did you endure this?"

"Ay, faith did I, Sir Patrick, having command from my betters not
to help."

"Well, if thou satst down with it," said the provost, "I see not
why we should rise up; especially as Master Oliver Proudfute, though
taken at advantage at first, has, as he has told us; recovered
his reputation and that of the burgh. But here comes the wine at
length. Fill round to my good friends and guests till the wine leap
over the cup. Prosperity to St. Johnston, and a merry welcome to
you all, my honest friends! And now sit you to eat a morsel, for
the sun is high up, and it must be long since you thrifty men have
broken your fast."

"Before we eat, my Lord Provost," said the bailie, "let us tell you
the pressing cause of our coming, which as yet we have not touched
upon."

"Nay, prithee, bailie," said the provost, "put it off till thou hast
eaten. Some complaint against the rascally jackmen and retainers
of the nobles, for playing at football on the streets of the burgh,
or some such goodly matter."

"No, my lord," said Craigdallie, stoutly and firmly. "It is the
jackmen's masters of whom we complain, for playing at football with
the honour of our families, and using as little ceremony with our