At this news d'Aguilar shook his head.
"Then that is just where the trouble lies," he exclaimed.

"I know it from my people, who keep me well informed, that all those servants of de Ayala, and there are more than twenty of them, have sworn an oath by the Virgin of Seville that before they leave this land they will have your kinsman's blood in payment for that of Andrew Pherson, who, although a Scotchman, was their officer, and a brave man whom they loved much.

Now, if they attack him, as they will, there must be a brawl, for Peter fights well, and if there is a brawl, though Peter and the English get the best of it, as very likely they may, Peter will certainly be hanged, for so the King has promised." "Before they leave the land?
When do they leave it ?" "De Ayala sails within a month, and his folk with him, for his co-ambassador, the Doctor de Puebla, will bear with him no more, and has written from the country house where he is sulking that one of them must go." "Then I think it is best, Senor, that Peter should travel for a month." "Friend Castell, you are wise; I think so too, and, I counsel you, arrange it at once.

Hush! here comes the lady, your daughter." As he spoke, Margaret appeared descending the broad oak stairs which led into the ante-room.

Holding a lamp in her hand, she was in full light, whereas the two men stood in the shadow.