There was some difficulty in arranging the execution party, for the sergeant was so much beloved that none of his comrades would undertake the dreadful task, alleging that their aim would not be steady. No Highlander, indeed, could be found to shoot him. Recourse was then had to the Manchester Regiment, and from this corps a dozen men were selected. The place of execution was fixed in an open field at the back of Market Street Lane, and at no great distance from the prince's residence. The Rev. Mr. Coppock, chaplain of the regiment, volunteered to attend the prisoner. Helen slept on peacefully till near six o'clock, when a noise, caused by the entrance of Colonel Johnstone and Mr. Coppock, aroused her, and she started up. "Oh! I have had such a pleasant dream, Erick," she said. "I thought we were in the Highlands together. But I woke, and find mysel here," she added, with a shudder. "Well, you will soon be in the Highlands again, dear lassie," he said. She looked at him wistfully, but made no answer. "Are you prepared, sergeant?" asked Colonel Johnstone, after bidding him good morrow. "I am, sir," replied Dickson. "'Tis well," said the colonel. "In half an hour you will set forth. Employ the interval in prayer." Colonel Johnstone then retired, and the chaplain began to perform the sacred rites, in which both Erick and Helen took part. Just as Mr. Coppock had finished, the sound of martial footsteps was heard outside, and immediately afterwards the door was opened and the provost entered the chamber, attended by a couple of men. Behind them came Colonel Johnstone. "Bind him," said the provost to his aids. "Must this be?" cried Dickson. "'Tis part of the regulation," rejoined the provost. "It need not be observed on the present occasion," said Colonel Johnstone. "I will answer for the prisoner's quiet deportment." "You need fear nothing from me, sir," said Dickson. "I will take your word," rejoined the provost. "Let his arms remain free," he added to the men. The order to march being given, the door was thrown open, and all passed out. Outside was a detachment from the corps to which Sergeant Dickson had belonged. With them was the execution party, consisting of a dozen picked men from the Manchester Regiment, commanded by Ensign Syddall, who looked very sad. The detachment of Highlanders likewise looked very sorrowful. With them were a piper and a drummer. The pipes were draped in black, and the drum muffled. Though the morning was dull and dark, a good many persons were looking on, apparently much impressed by the scene. Having placed himself at the head of the detachment, Colonel Johnstone gave the word to march, and the men moved slowly on. The muffled drum was beaten, and the pipes uttered a low wailing sound very doleful to hear. Then came Erick, with Helen by his side, and attended by the chaplain.