Page:Scott - Tales of my Landlord - 3rd series, vol. 4 - 1819.djvu/97

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A LEGEND OF MONTROSE.
85

I have observed that even the animal creation are incensed against those who intromit with their offspring forcibly, much more any rational and christian creature. But I pray you in courtesy to tell me, whether you assailed the castle from the hillock called Drumsnab, whilk I uphold to be the true point of attack, unless it were to be protected by a sconce."

"We ascended the cliff by ladders of ropes," said the prisoner, "drawn up by an accomplice and clansman, who had served six months in the castle to enjoy that one night of unlimited vengeance. The owl whooped around us as we hung betwixt heaven and earth; the tide roared against the foot of the rock, and dashed asunder our skiff, yet no man's heart failed him. In the morning there was blood and ashes, where there had been peace and joy at the sunset."

"It was a pretty camisade, I doubt not, Ranald MacEagh, a very sufficient onslaught, and worthily discharged. Nevertheless, I would have pressed the house from that