XVIII: I Talk with Alan in the Wood of Lettermore explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Loyalty and Betrayal

  David struggles with his loyalty to Alan after suspecting him of murder, but ultimately reaffirms their bond when Alan swears innocence and explains his code.

• Justice and Injustice

  Alan argues that David will not receive a fair trial in Campbell-dominated Inveraray, highlighting the corruption and bias in the legal system.

• Honor and Code of Conduct

  Alan's willingness to sacrifice himself to protect the real killer, and his swearing on the Holy Iron, illustrate his personal code of honor, which David comes to respect.

Characters to notice

• David Balfour

  David is horrified by the murder and initially believes Alan guilty, but is relieved when Alan swears innocence. He agrees to flee with Alan, though troubled by the moral compromises.

• Alan Breck Stewart

  Alan swears on his dirk that he had no part in the murder. He argues for protecting the real killer by drawing off the soldiers, and persuades David to flee with him to the Lowlands.

• Colin Roy Campbell

  Mentioned as the victim of the Appin murder; his death is the central event driving the chapter's conflict.

• James Stewart

  James of the Glens, Alan's kinsman, is mentioned as the person they will visit at Aucharn to get clothes, arms, and money.

• Mr. Henderland

  David recalls Mr. Henderland's words about learning from the wild Highlanders, which helps him reconcile with Alan's morals.

Key passages

• “I will tell you first of all, Mr. Balfour of Shaws, as one friend to another, that if I were going to kill a gentleman, it would not be in my own country, to bring trouble on my clan; and I would not go wanting sword and gun, and with a long fishing-rod upon my back.”

  Alan insists that if he were a murderer, he would not commit the crime in his own territory or without proper weapons, implying his innocence.

  Alan defends himself by pointing out the practical absurdity of the accusation.

• “I swear upon the Holy Iron I had neither art nor part, act nor thought in it.”

  Alan swears on his dirk that he had no involvement whatsoever in the murder.

  Alan uses a solemn Highland oath to convince David of his innocence.

• “The innocent have aye a chance to get assoiled in court; but for the lad that shot the bullet, I think the best place for him will be the heather.”

  Alan argues that the innocent can be acquitted in court, but the real killer should hide in the wilderness.

  Alan justifies drawing the soldiers away to protect the actual shooter.