The villages were found deserted by the male inhabitants, the younger women too had all left, but a few old crones generally remained in charge.

These scowled at the invaders, and crossing themselves muttered curses beneath their breath upon those whom their priests had taught them to regard as devils.

There was nothing to tempt the cupidity of the soldiers in these villages.
Malcolm's duty was confined to a casual inspection, to see that no stragglers had entered for the purpose of procuring wine.
The day's march was nearly over when he saw some flames rise from a village a short distance away.

Hurrying forward with his men he found a party of ten of the Swedish soldiers who had stolen away from the baggage guard engaged in plundering.

Two peasants lay dead in the street, and a house was in flames.
Malcolm at once ordered his detachment, who were twenty strong, to arrest the Swedes and to march them back to the columns.