Meanwhile, the unconscious object of this hatred, oppressed by the
overwhelming crowds constantly assembling at Perth to do him homage,
retired to Huntingtower-a castle of Lord Ruthven's, at some distance
from the town. Secluded from the throng, he there arranged, with the
chiefs of several clans, matters of consequence to the internal repose
of the country; but receiving applications for similar regulations from
the counties further north, he decided on going thither himself.
Severe as the weather was at that season, he bade adieu to the warm
hospitalities of Huntingtower, and, accompanied by Graham and his young
friend Edwin, with a small but faithful train he commenced a journey
which he intended should comprehend the circuit of the Highlands.
With the chieftain of almost every castle in his progress he passed a
day, and according to the interest which the situation of the
surrounding peasantry created in his mind he lengthened his sojourn.
Everywhere he was welcomed with enthusiasm, and his glad eye beheld the
festivities of Christmas with a delight which recalled past emotions,
till they wrung his heart.
The last day of the old year he spent with Lord Loch-awe, in Kichurn
Castle; and after a bounteous feast, in which lord and vassal joined,
sat up the night to hail the coming in of the new season.
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