The King sends affectionate greeting to his cousin, and desires that he also may come thither, that the ambassador of France may carry back to his master a favourable report of the unity and kindly governance of the kingdom during his minority." The Chancellor watched the Earl as he read this letter.

To one more suspicious than William Douglas it would have been clear that he was himself perfectly acquainted with the contents.
"I am bidden meet the King at the Castle of Edinburgh," said Douglas; "I will set out at once." "Nay, my lord," said Crichton, "not this day, at least.

Stay and hunt the stag on the braes of Borthwick.

My huntsmen have marked down a swift and noble buck.

To-morrow to Edinburgh an you will!" "I thank you, Sir William," the Douglas answered, curtly enough; "but the command is peremptory.