To attack him would be desparate; being one of a chain of guards around the interior of the fortress, his voice need only to be raised in the least to call a regiment to his assistance, and Edwin might be seized on the instant.
Aware of his danger, but not dismayed, the adventurous youth bethought him of his former excuse; and remembering a flask of spirits which Ireland had put into his pouch on leaving Glenfinlass, he affected to be intoxicated, and staggering up to the man, accosted him in the character of a servant of the garrison.
The sentinel did not doubt the appearance of the boy, and Edwin, holding out the flask, said that a pretty girl in the great tower had not only given him a long draught of the same good liquor but had filled his bottle, that he might not lack amusement, while her companion; one of Lady Mar's maids-in-waiting, was tying up a true lover's knot to send to his master in the garrison.

The man believed Edwin's tale, and the more readily as he thrust the flask into his hand, and bade him drink.

"Do not spare it," cried he; "the night is chilly, and I shall get more where that came from." The unsuspecting Southron returned him a merry reply, and putting the flask to his head, soon drained its contents.

They had the effect Edwin desired.

The soldier became flustered, and impatient of his duty.