Life of Flora Macdonald and her adventures with Prince Charles

44
might there require his immediate attention. Sir Alexander
informed the President that he had similar intentions, and
had judged it a prudent step, although his health was not
what he would wish it to be, to return without delay to his
clan and countrymen in Skye. The President told his
friend, the baronet, that he had resolved to take passage to
Inverness in the smack " Brothers," commanded by an
acquaintance of his own, a Captain Mackenzie, a cautious
sailor, and a steady man. Sir Alexander made up his mind
at once to accompany his friend by the same route, and
matters were to be speedily arranged accordingly. On the
third day of June, the whole party went on board the
" Brothers " in Leith harbour, and set sail on the evening
of the same day. A suitable supply of the requisite creature
comforts were put on board by Sir Alexander and the Presi-
dent, which proved a wise precaution, as the passage proved
tedious. The weather was all that could be desired, but
much too calm for a speedy voyage. There happened to
be a numerous company on board, among the rest, Mr.
John Fraser, Provost of Inverness, and two bailies of that
borough, who had been in Edinburgh attending some legal
proceedings connected with the town. The Provost was a
very facetious, jocular gentleman, whose mind was well
stored with anecdotes, and whose art in telling them was
easy and natural. He frequently kept the company in roars
of laughter, and everything was most enjoyable and pleasant.
Lady Margaret was much taken with his interesting stories,
and would now and then address him, saying, " Come now,
Provost, tell us something else ". Flora, naturally reserved,
modest, and unassuming, appeared to enjoy the company
exceedingly, and at intervals amused the company by singing
some of her Gaelic songs. Of all on board, the captain
of the smack seemed the most discontented. This arose