Montgomery manuscripts

The Montgomery Manuscripts. 15
then the reckoning was paid as daily before then had been done frankly, without demurring at all,
or even examining how the particulars amounted to the total sum charged by the bride. In fine the
Marshall and his man minded no more the keys or to look after the Laird being secured, by reason
of the news and wine, and the trust they reposed in the bride.
And now the play was in its last scene, for the sun being a while set, the Marshall was led (as
a gouty man) to his bed, and after him his two men (as manners and good breeding required) led to
their garrett; and the officers with their servants being gone to their lodgings, and night come, the
sergeant and his bride packed up her necessaries, and as much of the money and gold as she could
find, the maid being then busy in the kitchen, and at the same time the Laird and his servant put
up their linens; which done, the bride sent the maid a great way into the towne on an Aprill or
speedless errand, and the sergeant called the Laird and his servant down stairs. So the four went
forth, leaving candles burning in the room, and locking the street door, putting the key under it into
the floor. They went away incognitij which transaction amazed the Laird's servant, as not having
perceived the least of the whole design till that minute — though he was trusty enough, yet perhaps
the Laird did not think his discretion capable to retain such a secret in his drinking with the Mar-
shall and his men, to which he was obliged by the Laird (as the sergeant had been) as is aforesaid
What needs more discourse of the feats, but that the Laird and his company (though searched for)
got aboard, and safely landed at Leith, without any maladventure or cross fortune. All which par-
ticulars concerning the Laird's quarrell at Mr. Conninghame, and the events following thereupon,
and the sergeant's courtship, with the debauches at the treats, and the escape aforesaid, might afford
matter for a facetious pleasing novell, if they were descanted on by one of the modern witty com-
posers of such like diversions (as they call them), which I think is not an appellative name expressive
enough of their nature, because they are instructives and recreatives also.