Page:Scott - Tales of my Landlord - 3rd series, vol. 4 - 1819.djvu/274

 that the wolves or eagles will begin an onslaught on Gustavus to-night, in regard there is so much better cheer lying all around.—But," added he, "as I am to meet two honourable knights of England, with others of the knightly degree in your lordship's army, I pray it may be explained to them, that now, and in future, I claim precedence over them all, in respect of my rank as a Banneret, dubbed in a field of stricken battle."

"The devil confound him!" said Montrose, speaking aside; "he has contrived to set the kiln on fire as fast as I put it out.—This is a point, Sir Dugald," said he, gravely addressing him, "which I shall reserve for his Majesty's express consideration: in my camp, all must be upon equality, like the Knights of the Round Table; and take their places as soldiers should, upon the principle of, first come first served."

"Then I shall take care," said Menteith apart to the Marquis, "that Don Du-