Strangers helped me pack my bike for the journey to the farthest reaches of the Isle of Skye. It was a long way, and I had probably left setting off too late in the day for any hope of arriving in daylight. However, I had faith that the power of the north westerly wind would push me up the island, and that I would reach my important appointment on time.

Clan chief Hugh MacLeod of MacLeod had summoned me to Dunvegan Castle, and I was keen to hear what he had to say.