Summary

This historical novel recounts the fortunes of an idealistic young Macdonald lad, Ian, from Glenfinnan, who fought in all the battles of the Jacobite Uprising with his menfolk, supporting Prince Charles.

After the terrible Culloden defeat, he finds a silver, bejewelled dirk, at the edge of the battlefield, with the initials C.E.S. on the hilt. Convinced it belongs to Prince Charles himself, he sets out on a determined quest across the Highlands to return it to him, with the desire to go on serving him.

This takes many dangerous months, following in the steps of the Prince, fleeing from his enemies. Eventually he finds him and carries out several important missions for him.

As the Prince is about to set sail on the French rescue ship "L`Heureux", which is to take him to France and freedom, Ian is faced with a terrible decision.