Ebeneezer’s horse loses a shoe and Edward is asked to pay for it at a nearby blacksmith’s shop. In the small town of Cairnvreckan, they learn that Fergus and other Highland clans have begun their descent into the Lowlands. Edward is suspected of being a Jacobite and Ebeneezer attempts to ride off with both of their horses before Edward threatens the oncoming mob with a pistol. The mob overtakes him until a pastor, Mr. Morton, demands his release so he can be brought to the local Laird. The whole population of the town escorts Edward to the Laird of Cairnvreckan.

Major Melville of Cairnvreckan—a fair but dutiful Laird—asks Edward why he is passing through his land, and Ebeneezer accuses him of being a Jacobite. The Major dismisses everyone but Edward and Morton, and informs Edward that he has a warrant for his arrest for desertion and treason. Melville tells Edward that many of his fellow soldiers from Waverley-Honour have deserted and joined the Jacobite cause, for which Edward is being blamed. Edward’s relationship with Bradwardine and Fergus is exaggerated, making him seem like a key player in the Jacobite uprisings.