There were about a hundred Russians, as far as Jack could judge, grouped around three campfires that were sheltered under low canopies. In the dark and snow it was hard to make out their uniforms, but he thought they wore the black of Cossacks, while the presence of horses argued for cavalry. One group shared what looked like a colossal pipe; the scent of tobacco drifted plainly to him.
"We can attack them or avoid them," Jack reported to Gillespie. "Maybe we"d better ask Sir Colin for permission."
"I have already sent a runner back to him." It was obvious that the Black Watch did not waste time. "He"ll bring orders any minute."
Jack nodded; it was good to work with soldiers such as these.
"Sir," the Highlander was short, freckled and with a wispy sandy beard. "Sir Colin sends his comp
