It was broken by Lady Ashton, who in that space partly recovered her
natural audacity. She demanded to know the cause of this unauthorised
intrusion.

"That is a question, madam," said her son, "which I have the best right
to ask; and I must request of the Master of Ravenswood to follow me
where he can answer it at leisure."

Bucklaw interposed, saying, "No man on earth should usurp his previous
right in demanding an explanation from the Master. Craigengelt," he
added, in an undertone, "d--n ye, why do you stand staring as if you saw
a ghost? fetch me my sword from the gallery."

"I will relinquish to none," said Colonel Ashton, "my right of calling
to account the man who has offered this unparalleled affront to my
family." "Be patient, gentlemen," said Ravenswood, turning sternly
towards them, and waving his hand as if to impose silence on their
altercation. "If you are as weary of your lives as I am, I will find
time and place to pledge mine against one or both; at present, I have no
leisure for the disputes of triflers."

"Triflers!" echoed Colonel Ashton, half unsheathing his sword, while
Bucklaw laid his hand on the hilt of that which Craigengelt had just
reached him.

Sir William Ashton, alarmed for his son's safety, rushed between the
young men and Ravenswood, exclaiming: "My son, I command you--Bucklaw, I
entreat you--keep the peace, in the name of the Queen and of the law!"