But Bruce was much more than a king, Your
Majesty, he was the leader of his people. And not the first; Wallace
the man of the people comes first. Your Majesty, I now own King
Malcolm's tower in Dunfermline[79]--he from whom you derive your
precious heritage of Scottish blood. Perhaps you know the fine old
ballad, 'Sir Patrick Spens.'
[Footnote 79: In the deed of trust conveying Pittencrieff Park and
Glen to Dunfermline an unspecified reservation of property was made.
The "with certain exceptions" related to King Malcolm's Tower. For
reasons best known to himself Mr. Carnegie retained the ownership of
this relic of the past.]
"'The King sits in Dunfermline tower
Drinking the bluid red wine.'
I should like to escort you some day to the tower of your Scottish
ancestor, that you may do homage to his memory." He exclaimed:
"That would be very fine. The Scotch are much quicker and cleverer
than the Germans. The Germans are too slow."
"Your Majesty, where anything Scotch is concerned, I must decline to
accept you as an impartial judge."
He laughed and waved adieu, calling out:
"You are to dine with me this evening"--and excusing himself went to
greet the arriving admirals.
About sixty were present at the dinner and we had a pleasant time,
indeed.
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