Part 3, Chapter 11 Summary

In two days time Claire is on her way out of the castle. Claire rides alongside Mr. Ned Gowan. He is a scribe who works in Colum's hall. As it turns out, this trip is to collect rent money for Colum; and Mr. Gowan has a sack in which to accept payment. Mr. Gowan tells Claire the story of how he met Jacob MacKenzie (Colum and Dougal's father) years ago, and how it changed his life. Jacob robs Mr. Gowan, and Mr. Gowan insists on following him by foot. He then tells Claire the story of how Colum became Laird of the castle and Dougal vowed to be his legs and strength in battle once Jacob had died. Together they would rule the castle. He continues to tell Claire of how he had pledged his loyalty to Column, but was faithful...