Marti Talbott's Highlander Series, Book 1

Her second problem baffled her mind. The Fergusons did not always bathe often enough and she couldn't imagine living with them. Laird Ferguson did not smell, but everyone knew others did. Who could help her with that problem? She would ask Kevin, he would know what to do.

*

When Laird Ferguson entered the Keep to ask Kevin's permission to take Kenna for a walk, the great hall was filled with people. He saw Kevin motion for him to come forward and take a seat at the table.

Kevin turned to the twelve-year-old standing before him. "What is your crime, Joshua?"

The boy hung his head. "I stole a sweet cake."

"I see. What is the punishment for stealing?"

"But Kevin, I had to clean the stables just a fortnight ago and I didn't do anything wrong that time."

"'Tis truly the worst of the punishments, but if I do not punish you, I cannot punish the next child who steals. You will clean up after the horses for one week."

"Yes Kevin."

Laird Ferguson listened with great interest as Kevin decided the punishments for the children and realized each got a cleaning duty. That was how Kevin kept his home so spotless. He was especially interested in the last lad of ten whose mother had him by the ear.

"What have you done, Ronan?" The boy refused to answer, so his mother twisted his ear. Kevin gave her a look and she let go. "Ronan, what have you done?"

"I do not like to bathe. I would sooner go without my evening meal."

Kevin thought about that for a moment. "I was once your age and not fond of bathing either, but do you know what my father said?" The boy shook his head. "My father said if an enemy can smell you, 'tis easier for him to find and kill you. A MacGreagor warrior must keep himself clean. All MacGreagors bathe nearly every day."

The boy swelled his chest. "I will do it. I will be a fine warrior someday." He turned around and ran out the door. His mother curtseyed to both lairds, nodded her appreciation to Kevin and followed him out.

Kevin laughed and turned to Laird Ferguson, "And you, young man, what have you done?" He hoped the Ferguson had gotten the message for Kenna's sake. If not, he would have to be more blunt.

Ferguson held up his hands as if to surrender, "I have done nothing, I swear it."

"Good, I have run out of punishments."

"I see I can learn a lot from you. However, today I promised Kenna I would take her for a walk. I ask your permission."