'He had forgot,' he said, 'that he had ordered a few of his clan out, for the purpose of seeing that they were in a fit condition to protect the country, and prevent such accidents as, he was sorry to learn, had befallen the Baron of Bradwardine.

Before they were dismissed, perhaps Captain Waverley might choose to see them go through a part of their exercise.' Edward assented, and the men executed with agility and precision some of the ordinary military movements.

They then practised individually at a mark, and showed extraordinary dexterity in the management of the pistol and firelock.

They took aim, standing, sitting, leaning, or lying prostrate, as they were commanded, and always with effect upon the target.

Next, they paired off for the broadsword exercise; and, having manifested their individual skill and dexterity, united in two bodies, and exhibited a sort of mock encounter, in which the charge, the rally, the flight, the pursuit, and all the current of a heady fight, were exhibited to the sound of the great war bagpipe.
On a signal made by the Chief, the skirmish was ended.