'I will, on condition you will not attempt a jest on the subject.--Since
this unhappy retreat commenced, I have scarce ever been able to sleep
for thinking of my clan, and of this poor Prince, whom they are leading
back like a dog in a string, whether he will or no, and of the downfall
of my family. Last night I felt so feverish that I left my quarters, and
walked out, in hopes the keen frosty air would brace my nerves--I cannot
tell how much I dislike going on, for I know you will hardly believe me.
However--I crossed a small footbridge, and kept walking backwards and
forwards, when I observed with surprise, by the clear moonlight, a tall
figure in a grey plaid, such as shepherds wear in the south of Scotland,
which, move at what pace I would, kept regularly about four yards before
me.'
'You saw a Cumberland peasant in his ordinary dress, probably.'
'No: I thought so at first, and was astonished at the man's audacity
in daring to dog me. I called to him but received no answer. I felt an
anxious throbbing at my heart; and to ascertain what I dreaded, I stood
still, and turned myself on the same spot successively to the four
points of the compass--By Heaven, Edward, turn where I would, the figure
was instantly before my eyes, at precisely the same distance! I was then
convinced it was the Bodach Glas.
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