I have a
guess that this gallant Chevalier has a design that I should be your
proselyte; and, as I wish you to be mine, there cannot be a more fair
proposal than to afford us fair conference together. But as I spoke
to-day under the influence of feelings I rarely give way to, I hope
you will excuse my entering again upon controversy till we are somewhat
better acquainted.'
CHAPTER LI
INTRIGUES OF LOVE AND POLITICS
It is not necessary to record in these pages the triumphant entrance of
the Chevalier into Edinburgh after the decisive affair of Preston. One
circumstance, however, may be noticed, because it illustrates the
high spirit of Flora Mac-Ivor. The Highlanders, by whom the Prince was
surrounded, in the licence and extravagance of this joyful moment,
fired their pieces repeatedly, and one of these having been accidentally
loaded with ball, the bullet grazed the young lady's temple as she waved
her handkerchief from a balcony. [See Note 30.] Fergus, who beheld the
accident, was at her side in an instant; and, on seeing that the wound
was trifling, he drew his broadsword, with the purpose of rushing down
upon the man by whose carelessness she had incurred so much danger,
when, holding him by the plaid, 'Do not harm the poor fellow,' she
cried; 'for Heaven's sake, do not harm him! but thank God with me that
the accident happened to Flora Mac-Ivor; for had it befallen a Whig,
they would have pretended that the shot was fired on purpose.
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