Page:The Family Legend.pdf/117

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Would so it were! but these are days of peace. They bear them to the stranger dame's apartment, Whom they have told thee of. There, at her door, An ancient faithful handmaid of the house, Whate'er they bring receives; for none beside Of all the household is admitted.

Now, by my fay! my purse and dirk I'd give To know who this may be.—Some chieftain's lady Whom John of Lorne

Nay, there, I must believe, Thou guessest erringly.—I grant, indeed, He doffs his bonnet to each tacks-man's wife, And is with every coif amongst them all, Both young and old, in such high favour held, Nor maiden, wife, nor beldame of the clan But to the Earl doth her petition bring Through intercession of the Lord of Lorne; But never yet did husband, sire, or brother, Of wrong from him complain.

I know it well.