And it irks me the more to put on cold harness in this nipping weather, that, would but the church send a detachment of their saints--and they have some Highland ones well known in this district, and doubtless used to the climate--they might fight their own battles, like merry St.George of England.

But I know not how it is, we hear of their miracles when they are propitiated, and of their vengeance if any one trespasses on their patrimonies, and these are urged as reasons for extending their lands by large largesses; and yet, if there come down but a band of twenty Highlanders, bell, book, and candle make no speed, and the belted baron must be fain to maintain the church in possession of the lands which he has given to her, as much as if he himself still enjoyed the fruits of them." "Son David," said the King, "you give an undue license to your tongue." "Nay, Sir, I am mute," replied the Prince.

"I had no purpose to disturb your Highness, or displease the father prior, who, with so many miracles at his disposal, will not face, as it seems, a handful of Highland caterans." "We know," said the prior, with suppressed indignation, "from what source these vile doctrines are derived, which we hear with horror from the tongue that now utters them.

When princes converse with heretics, their minds and manners are alike corrupted.

They show themselves in the streets as the companions of maskers and harlots, and in the council as the scorners of the church and of holy things." "Peace, good father!" said the King.