But that 's nothing to the point . This is what he did . '' `` Ay '' said I , `` come to that . '' `` Well , David , '' said he , `` since he couldnae be rid of the loyal commons by fair means , he swore he would be rid of them by foul . Ardshiel was to starve : that was the thing he aimed at . And since them that fed him in his exile wouldnae be bought out -- right or wrong , he would drive them out . Therefore he sent for lawyers , and papers , and red-coats to stand at his back . And the kindly folk of that country must all pack and tramp , every father 's son out of his father 's house , and out of the place where he was bred and fed , and played when he was a callant . And who are to succeed them ? Bare-leggit beggars ! King George is to whistle for his rents ; he maun dow with less ; he can spread his butter thinner : what cares Red Colin ? If he can hurt Ardshiel , he has his wish ; if he can pluck the meat from my chieftain 's table , and the bit toys out of his children 's hands , he will gang hame singing to Glenure ! '' `` Let me have a word , '' said I. `` Be sure , if they take less rents , be sure Government has a finger in the pie . It 's not this Campbell 's fault , man -- it 's his orders . And if ye killed this Colin to-morrow , what better would ye be ? There would be another factor in his shoes , as fast as spur can drive . '' `` Ye 're a good lad in a fight , '' said Alan ; `` but , man ! ye have Whig blood in ye ! '' He spoke kindly enough , but there was so much anger under his contempt that I thought it was wise to change the conversation . I expressed my wonder how , with the Highlands covered with troops , and guarded like a city in a siege , a man in his situation could come and go without arrest .
`` It 's easier than ye would think , '' said XXXXX .
Alan Ardshiel Ay Campbell David George Glenure callant red-coats wouldnae