Page:Scott - Tales of my Landlord - 3rd series, vol. 4 - 1819.djvu/195

 they were repeatedly obliged to shift their quarters, in respect of Argyle's repeated attempts to repossess himself of the person of an officer who was honoured with your Excellency's confidence; so that I had occasion to admire the singular dexterity and knowledge of the face of the country with which they alternately atchieved their retreat and their advance; and when, at length, I was able to repair to your Excellency's standard, this honest creature, Ranald MacEagh, guided me by paths which my steed Gustavus, (which your lordship may remember,) trode with perfect safety, so that I said to myself, that where guides, spies, or intelligencers, were required in a Highland campaign in that western country, more expert persons than he and his attendants could not possibly be desired."

"And can you answer for his fidelity?" said Montrose; "what is his name and condition?"

"He is an outlaw, and robber by profession," answered Dalgetty; "and by