Sir Hugh and I parted in great confusion. At that moment my eye fell upon the tall figure of my father, white-haired, bent and broken from his long confinement. In a moment I was in his arms, the others standing aside respectfully to let us come together. As I hung upon my father, as he kissed me, fondled me, and blessed me, it was Sir Hugh's voice which interrupted us. "Sir," said he to General Ramesay, "is that the Earl of Clanranald?" "The same," said the General. "By your leave, sir," continued the young soldier stepping forward, "I am Sir Hugh Richmond of Surrey, until recently an officer in the King's Guards, now a disgraced soldier, and if I understand your daughter aright, sentenced to exile like yourself. I am not without friends upon the continent, especially in Holland whither I propose to retire, and whither I should be glad, if your plans permit, to have you accompany me. Nor am I absolutely penniless, for I have certain moneys at interest in that country which are at your service. For the rest, I love your daughter; I would fain make her my wife. May I have your consent to our union, my lord?" At this Sir Alexander and the General looked at each other and smiled again. "I know naught of you, sir," replied the old Earl courteously. "You seem a gallant gentleman." He hesitated. "I am old, friendless, alone. This is the last of my ancient race. What saith my daughter?" Thus adjured I spoke up bravely. "If it pleases you, sir, to give your consent, I shall be very happy," I answered. "Had it not been for Sir Hugh's kindness to me, I had not succeeded in procuring your freedom. You know the story?" "Master Dunner hath told me. And you wish to marry this gentleman?" "'Tis the dearest wish of my heart," I said with growing courage and resolution. "It is also evidently," interposed Sir Alexander Forfair, "the dearest wish of His Majesty the King's heart as well." He lifted a paper as he spoke, which I immediately recognised. "My punishment!" I exclaimed in amazement. "'Tis indeed a heavy one." "Imprisonment for life," I broke out. "Even so, madam, but in the custody of Sir Hugh Richmond, who will give bond, a marriage bond, forthwith to safeguard the prisoner." "With all I have, or hope to have," answered the delighted soldier. And this time before them all once more he took me in his arms. Outside in the corridor, a priest, the chaplain of the garrison, waited, and there before them all, clad as I was, I placed my hand in that of my soldier, and we were made man and wife. The brief ceremony was soon over. There was little time for delay; we had but four days in which to leave Scotland, yet the others considerately withdrew, leaving me alone with my husband for a moment. The door was open and there was none to bar our going when we chose. The footfalls of my father, who was the last to go, had scarce died away in the passage when my husband took me once more in his arms.