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. Edwin perceived it, and yawning, complained of drowsiness.
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