'And I won't tell what is best not said,' I nodded to the train of Highland garrons. 'You'll be staying to eat?'
'Your hospitality is all the more welcome for being unexpected.' The Highlander said.
I did not hear the third man until he emerged from the slopes of Cairn Hill and into the circle of firelight. 'She's alone.' He said.
'I am.' I agreed. 'Did you think otherwise?'
The spokesman's smile was slow and genuine. 'It's best to make sure about these things.' He looked around beyond the circle of light from my fire. 'There is better shelter at the Hoolet's Wa's.'
'I know of it.' The Hoolet's Wa's was a small, long abandoned cottage high up in one of the gulleys that seamed the side of the Cairn Hill. 'I am fine here at the Borestone.'
The spokesman sipped at his soup. 'As you wish
