return an answer, forwarded it to Argyle, who soon took occasion to confront Montrose.
to Fort William. They all went to a public-house that was in the place, and took a refreshment together; in the course of which, a trifling dispute arose between Lamont and young MacGregor. Dirks were drawn, and before friends could interfere, M’Gregor fell mortally wounded. In the confusion Lamont escaped, and got securely to the house of M’Gregor, which happened to be the first habitation that met his eye at the dawn of morning. The chieftain was up, and standing at the door.—“Save my life,” said the stranger, “for men are in pursuit of me to take it away.”—“whoever you are,” say M‘Gregor, “here you are safe.”
Lamont was but just brought in, and introducted to the family, when a loud demand was made at the door, if a stranger had entered the house. “He has,” says McGregor, “and what is your business with him?” “In a scuffle,” cried the pursuers, “he has killed your son; deliver him up, that we may instantly revenge the deed.”— M’Gregor’s lady, with his two daughters, filled the house with their cries and lamentations. “Be quiet,” says the chief, with the tears streaming from his eyes, “and let no man presume to touch the youth— for he has M‘Gregor’s word and honour for his safety; and as God lives, he shall be safe and secure whilst in my house.”
In a little, the chieftain accompanied Lamont, with twelve men, under arms, to Inverary, and landed him in safety on the other side of Loch-fine, then took him by the hand, and thus
