Page:Scott - Tales of my Landlord - 3rd series - 1819.djvu/234

224 terated M'Aulay; "and as they are to spend the money in the King's service, what signifies whether you, they, or I pay it—we are a' one man's bairns, I hope. But you must help me out too, or else I shall be for taking to Andrew Ferrara; for I like not to be treated like a liar or a braggart at my own board-end, when, God knows, I only meant to support my honour, and that of my family and country."

Donald, as they were speaking, entered, with rather a blither face than he might have been expected to wear, considering the impending fate of his master's purse and credit. "Gentlemens, her dinner is ready, and her candles are lighted too," said Donald, with a strong guttural emphasis on the last clause of his speech.

"What the devil can he mean;" said Musgrave, looking to his countryman.

Lord Menteith put the same question with his eyes to the Laird, which M'Aulay answered by shaking his head.