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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Antiquary, Volume 2 + +Author: Sir Walter Scott + +Release Date: August 17, 2004 [EBook #7004] +Last Updated: February 22, 2010 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ANTIQUARY, VOLUME 2 *** + + + + +Produced by David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + +<a name="image-0001"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/bookcover.jpg" height="1073" width="754" +alt="Bookcover +"> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<a name="image-0002"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/spines.jpg" height="1079" width="398" +alt="Spines +"> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<br><br> +<h1> + THE ANTIQUARY +</h1> +<br> +<h2> + By Sir Walter Scott +</h2> +<br><br> +<h3> + VOLUME TWO. +</h3> +<br><br> +<a name="image-0003"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/titlepage2.jpg" height="966" width="628" +alt="Titlepage, Second Volume +"> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<a name="image-0004"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/frontispiece2.jpg" height="785" width="539" +alt="Frontispiece, Second Volume +"> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> + + + +<br><br> +<hr> +<br><br> + +<h2>CONTENTS</h2> + +<center> +<table summary=""> +<tr><td> + + + +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0001"> +CHAPTER FIRST. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0002"> +CHAPTER SECOND. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0003"> +CHAPTER THIRD. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0004"> +CHAPTER FOURTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0005"> +CHAPTER FIFTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0006"> +CHAPTER SIXTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0007"> +CHAPTER SEVENTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0008"> +CHAPTER EIGHTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0009"> +CHAPTER NINTH +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0010"> +CHAPTER TENTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0011"> +CHAPTER ELEVENTH +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0012"> +CHAPTER TWELFTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0013"> +CHAPTER THIRTEENTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0014"> +CHAPTER FOURTEENTH +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0015"> +CHAPTER FIFTEENTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0016"> +CHAPTER SIXTEENTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0017"> +CHAPTER SEVENTEENTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0018"> +CHAPTER EIGHTEENTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0019"> +CHAPTER NINETEENTH +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0020"> +CHAPTER TWENTIETH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0021"> +CHAPTER TWENTY-FIRST. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0022"> +CHAPTER TWENTY-SECOND. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0023"> +CHAPTER TWENTY-THIRD. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2HCH0024"> +CHAPTER TWENTY-FOURTH. +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2H_NOTE"> +NOTES TO THE ANTIQUARY. +</a></p> + +</td></tr> +</table> +</center> + +<br><br> +<hr> +<br><br> + +<h2>ILLUSTRATIONS</h2> + +<center> +<table summary=""> +<tr><td> + + + +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0001"> +Bookcover +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0002"> +Spines +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0003"> +Titlepage +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0004"> +Frontispiece-2 +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0005"> +The Funeral of the Countess +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0006"> +Lord Glenallen and Elspeth +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0007"> +The Antiquary Visits Edie in Prison +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0008"> +My Good Friends, 'favete Linguis' +</a></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0009"> +The Antiquary Arming +</a></p> + +</td></tr> +</table> +</center> + +<br><br> +<hr> +<br> +<br> + + + + +<h2>ILLUSTRATORS</h2> + +<br> + +<center> +<table summary=""> +<tr><td> + + + +<h2>Subject or Title + + +</h2> +</td> +<td> +<h2>Original Drawing + +</h2> +</td> +<td> +<h2>Etching +</h2> +</td> +</tr> + + + +<tr> +<td> +Breakfast at Monkbarns +</td> +<td> +A. H. Tourrier +</td> +<td> +P. Tesysonnieres +</td> +</tr> + + +<tr> +<td> +The Funeral of the Countess +</td> +<td> +A. H. Tourrier +</td> +<td> +V. Focillon +</td> +</tr> + + +<tr> +<td> +Lord Glenallen and Elspeth +</td> +<td> +A. H. Tourrier +</td> +<td> +Charles Courtry +</td> +</tr> + + +<tr> +<td> +The Antiquary Visits Edie in Prison +</td> +<td> +A. H. Tourrier +</td> +<td> +W. Nooth +</td> +</tr> + + +<tr> +<td> +"My good friends, 'favete linguis'" +</td> +<td> +Original Etching by: +</td> +<td> +George Cruikshank +</td> +</tr> + + +<tr> +<td> +The Antiquary Arming +</td> +<td> +A. H. Tourrier +</td> +<td> +H. C. Manesse + +</td></tr> +</table> +</center> + + + +<br><br> +<br><br> +<hr> +<br> +<br> + + + +<a name="2HCH0001"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER FIRST. +</h2> +<pre> + Wiser Raymondus, in his closet pent, + Laughs at such danger and adventurement + When half his lands are spent in golden smoke, + And now his second hopeful glasse is broke, + But yet, if haply his third furnace hold, + Devoteth all his pots and pans to gold.* +</pre> +<p> + * The author cannot remember where these lines are to be found: perhaps + in Bishop Hall's Satires. [They occur in Book iv. Satire iii.] +</p> +<p> + About a week after the adventures commemorated in our last + CHAPTER, Mr. + Oldbuck, descending to his breakfast-parlour, found that his womankind + were not upon duty, his toast not made, and the silver jug, which was + wont to receive his libations of mum, not duly aired for its reception. +</p> +<p> + "This confounded hot-brained boy!" he said to himself; "now that he + begins to get out of danger, I can tolerate this life no longer. All goes + to sixes and sevens—an universal saturnalia seems to be proclaimed in my + peaceful and orderly family. I ask for my sister—no answer. I call, I + shout—I invoke my inmates by more names than the Romans gave to their + deities—at length Jenny, whose shrill voice I have heard this half-hour + lilting in the Tartarean regions of the kitchen, condescends to hear me + and reply, but without coming up stairs, so the conversation must be + continued at the top of my lungs. "—Here he again began to hollow + aloud—"Jenny, where's Miss Oldbuck?" +</p> +<p> + "Miss Grizzy's in the captain's room." +</p> +<p> + "Umph!—I thought so—and where's my niece?" +</p> +<p> + "Miss Mary's making the captain's tea." +</p> +<p> + "Umph! I supposed as much again—and where's Caxon?" +</p> +<p> + "Awa to the town about the captain's fowling-gun, and his setting-dog." +</p> +<p> + "And who the devil's to dress my periwig, you silly jade?—when you knew + that Miss Wardour and Sir Arthur were coming here early after breakfast, + how could you let Caxon go on such a Tomfool's errand?" +</p> +<p> + "Me! what could I hinder him?—your honour wadna hae us contradict the + captain e'en now, and him maybe deeing?" +</p> +<p> + "Dying!" said the alarmed Antiquary,—"eh! what? has he been worse?" +</p> +<p> + "Na, he's no nae waur that I ken of."* +</p> +<p> + * It is, I believe, a piece of free-masonry, or a point of conscience, + among the Scottish lower orders, never to admit that a patient is doing + better. The closest approach to recovery which they can be brought to + allow, is, that the pairty inquired after is "Nae waur." +</p> +<p> + "Then he must be better—and what good is a dog and a gun to do here, but + the one to destroy all my furniture, steal from my larder, and perhaps + worry the cat, and the other to shoot somebody through the head. He has + had gunning and pistolling enough to serve him one while, I should + think." +</p> +<p> + Here Miss Oldbuck entered the parlour, at the door of which Oldbuck was + carrying on this conversation, he bellowing downward to Jenny, and she + again screaming upward in reply. +</p> +<p> + "Dear brother," said the old lady, "ye'll cry yoursell as hoarse as a + corbie—is that the way to skreigh when there's a sick person in the + house?" +</p> +<p> + "Upon my word, the sick person's like to have all the house to himself,— + I have gone without my breakfast, and am like to go without my wig; and I + must not, I suppose, presume to say I feel either hunger or cold, for + fear of disturbing the sick gentleman who lies six rooms off, and who + feels himself well enough to send for his dog and gun, though he knows I + detest such implements ever since our elder brother, poor Williewald, + marched out of the world on a pair of damp feet, caught in the + Kittlefitting-moss. But that signifies nothing; I suppose I shall be + expected by and by to lend a hand to carry Squire Hector out upon his + litter, while he indulges his sportsmanlike propensities by shooting my + pigeons, or my turkeys—I think any of the <i>ferae naturae</i> are safe from + him for one while." +</p> +<p> + Miss M'Intyre now entered, and began to her usual morning's task of + arranging her uncle's breakfast, with the alertness of one who is too + late in setting about a task, and is anxious to make up for lost time. + But this did not avail her. "Take care, you silly womankind—that mum's + too near the fire—the bottle will burst; and I suppose you intend to + reduce the toast to a cinder as a burnt-offering for Juno, or what do you + call her—the female dog there, with some such Pantheon kind of a name, + that your wise brother has, in his first moments of mature reflection, + ordered up as a fitting inmate of my house (I thank him), and meet + company to aid the rest of the womankind of my household in their daily + conversation and intercourse with him." +</p> +<p> + "Dear uncle, don't be angry about the poor spaniel; she's been tied up at + my brother's lodgings at Fairport, and she's broke her chain twice, and + came running down here to him; and you would not have us beat the + faithful beast away from the door?—it moans as if it had some sense of + poor Hector's misfortune, and will hardly stir from the door of his + room." +</p> +<p> + "Why," said his uncle, "they said Caxon had gone to Fairport after his + dog and gun." +</p> +<p> + "O dear sir, no," answered Miss M'Intyre, "it was to fetch some dressings + that were wanted, and Hector only wished him to bring out his gun, as he + was going to Fairport at any rate." +</p> +<p> + "Well, then, it is not altogether so foolish a business, considering what + a mess of womankind have been about it—Dressings, quotha?—and who is to + dress my wig?—But I suppose Jenny will undertake"—continued the old + bachelor, looking at himself in the glass—"to make it somewhat decent. + And now let us set to breakfast—with what appetite we may. Well may I + say to Hector, as Sir Isaac Newton did to his dog Diamond, when the + animal (I detest dogs) flung down the taper among calculations which had + occupied the philosopher for twenty years, and consumed the whole mass of + materials—Diamond, Diamond, thou little knowest the mischief thou hast + done!" +</p> +<p> + "I assure you, sir," replied his niece, "my brother is quite sensible of + the rashness of his own behaviour, and allows that Mr. Lovel behaved very + handsomely." +</p> +<p> + "And much good that will do, when he has frightened the lad out of the + country! I tell thee, Mary, Hector's understanding, and far more that of + feminity, is inadequate to comprehend the extent of the loss which he has + occasioned to the present age and to posterity—<i>aureum quidem opus</i>—a + poem on such a subject, with notes illustrative of all that is clear, and + all that is dark, and all that is neither dark nor clear, but hovers in + dusky twilight in the region of Caledonian antiquities. I would have made + the Celtic panegyrists look about them. Fingal, as they conceitedly term + Fin-Mac-Coul, should have disappeared before my search, rolling himself + in his cloud like the spirit of Loda. Such an opportunity can hardly + again occur to an ancient and grey-haired man; and to see it lost by the + madcap spleen of a hot-headed boy! But I submit—Heaven's will be done!" +</p> +<p> + Thus continued the Antiquary to <i>maunder,</i> as his sister expressed it, + during the whole time of breakfast, while, despite of sugar and honey, + and all the comforts of a Scottish morning tea-table, his reflections + rendered the meal bitter to all who heard them. But they knew the nature + of the man. "Monkbarns's bark," said Miss Griselda Oldbuck, in + confidential intercourse with Miss Rebecca Blattergowl, "is muckle waur + than his bite." +</p> +<p> + In fact, Mr. Oldbuck had suffered in mind extremely while his nephew was + in actual danger, and now felt himself at liberty, upon his returning + health, to indulge in complaints respecting the trouble he had been put + to, and the interruption of his antiquarian labours. Listened to, + therefore, in respectful silence, by his niece and sister, he unloaded + his discontent in such grumblings as we have rehearsed, venting many a + sarcasm against womankind, soldiers, dogs, and guns, all which implements + of noise, discord, and tumult, as he called them, he professed to hold in + utter abomination. +</p> +<p> + This expectoration of spleen was suddenly interrupted by the noise of a + carriage without, when, shaking off all sullenness at the sound, Oldbuck + ran nimbly up stairs and down stairs, for both operations were necessary + ere he could receive Miss Wardour and her father at the door of his + mansion. +</p> +<p> + A cordial greeting passed on both sides. And Sir Arthur, referring to his + previous inquiries by letter and message, requested to be particularly + informed of Captain M'Intyre's health. +</p> +<p> + "Better than he deserves," was the answer—"better than he deserves, for + disturbing us with his vixen brawls, and breaking God's peace and the + King's." +</p> +<p> + "The young gentleman," Sir Arthur said, "had been imprudent; but he + understood they were indebted to him for the detection of a suspicious + character in the young man Lovel." +</p> +<p> + "No more suspicious than his own," answered the Antiquary, eager in his + favourites defence;—"the young gentleman was a little foolish and + headstrong, and refused to answer Hector's impertinent interrogatories— + that is all. Lovel, Sir Arthur, knows how to choose his confidants + better—Ay, Miss Wardour, you may look at me—but it is very true;—it + was in my bosom that he deposited the secret cause of his residence at + Fairport; and no stone should have been left unturned on my part to + assist him in the pursuit to which he had dedicated himself." +</p> +<p> + On hearing this magnanimous declaration on the part of the old Antiquary, + Miss Wardour changed colour more than once, and could hardly trust her + own ears. For of all confidants to be selected as the depositary of love + affairs,—and such she naturally supposed must have been the subject of + communication,—next to Edie Ochiltree, Oldbuck seemed the most uncouth + and extraordinary; nor could she sufficiently admire or fret at the + extraordinary combination of circumstances which thus threw a secret of + such a delicate nature into the possession of persons so unfitted to be + entrusted with it. She had next to fear the mode of Oldbuck's entering + upon the affair with her father, for such, she doubted not, was his + intention. She well knew that the honest gentleman, however vehement in + his prejudices, had no great sympathy with those of others, and she had + to fear a most unpleasant explosion upon an <i>e'claircissement</i> taking + place between them. It was therefore with great anxiety that she heard + her father request a private interview, and observed Oldbuck readily + arise and show the way to his library. She remained behind, attempting to + converse with the ladies of Monkbarns, but with the distracted feelings + of Macbeth, when compelled to disguise his evil conscience by listening + and replying to the observations of the attendant thanes upon the storm + of the preceding night, while his whole soul is upon the stretch to + listen for the alarm of murder, which he knows must be instantly raised + by those who have entered the sleeping apartment of Duncan. But the + conversation of the two virtuosi turned on a subject very different from + that which Miss Wardour apprehended. +</p> +<p> + "Mr. Oldbuck," said Sir Arthur, when they had, after a due exchange of + ceremonies, fairly seated themselves in the <i>sanctum sanctorum</i> of the + Antiquary,—"you, who know so much of my family matters, may probably be + surprised at the question I am about to put to you." +</p> +<p> + "Why, Sir Arthur, if it relates to money, I am very sorry, but"— +</p> +<p> + "It does relate to money matters, Mr. Oldbuck." +</p> +<p> + "Really, then, Sir Arthur," continued the Antiquary, "in the present + state of the money-market—and stocks being so low"— +</p> +<p> + "You mistake my meaning, Mr. Oldbuck," said the Baronet; "I wished to ask + your advice about laying out a large sum of money to advantage." +</p> +<p> + "The devil!" exclaimed the Antiquary; and, sensible that his involuntary + ejaculation of wonder was not over and above civil, he proceeded to + qualify it by expressing his joy that Sir Arthur should have a sum of + money to lay out when the commodity was so scarce. "And as for the mode + of employing it," said he, pausing, "the funds are low at present, as I + said before, and there are good bargains of land to be had. But had you + not better begin by clearing off encumbrances, Sir Arthur?—There is the + sum in the personal bond—and the three notes of hand," continued he, + taking out of the right-hand drawer of his cabinet a certain red + memorandum-book, of which Sir Arthur, from the experience of former + frequent appeals to it, abhorred the very sight—"with the interest + thereon, amounting altogether to—let me see"— +</p> +<p> + "To about a thousand pounds," said Sir Arthur, hastily; "you told me the + amount the other day." +</p> +<p> + "But there's another term's interest due since that, Sir Arthur, and it + amounts (errors excepted) to eleven hundred and thirteen pounds, seven + shillings, five pennies, and three-fourths of a penny sterling—But look + over the summation yourself." +</p> +<p> + "I daresay you are quite right, my dear sir," said the Baronet, putting + away the book with his hand, as one rejects the old-fashioned civility + that presses food upon you after you have eaten till you nauseate— + "perfectly right, I dare say; and in the course of three days or less you + shall have the full value—that is, if you choose to accept it in + bullion." +</p> +<p> + "Bullion! I suppose you mean lead. What the deuce! have we hit on the + vein then at last? But what could I do with a thousand pounds' worth, and + upwards, of lead? The former abbots of Trotcosey might have roofed their + church and monastery with it indeed—but for me"— +</p> +<p> + "By bullion," said the Baronet, "I mean the precious metals,—gold and + silver." +</p> +<p> + "Ay! indeed?—and from what Eldorado is this treasure to be imported?" +</p> +<p> + "Not far from hence," said Sir Arthur, significantly. "And naow I think + of it, you shall see the whole process, on one small condition." +</p> +<p> + "And what is that?" craved the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "Why, it will be necessary for you to give me your friendly assistance, + by advancing one hundred pounds or thereabouts." +</p> +<p> + Mr. Oldbuck, who had already been grasping in idea the sum, principal and + interest, of a debt which he had long regarded as wellnigh desperate, was + so much astounded at the tables being so unexpectedly turned upon him, + that he could only re-echo, in an accent of wo and surprise, the words, + "Advance one hundred pounds!" +</p> +<p> + "Yes, my good sir," continued Sir Arthur; "but upon the best possible + security of being repaid in the course of two or three days." +</p> +<p> + There was a pause—either Oldbuck's nether jaw had not recovered its + position, so as to enable him to utter a negative, or his curiosity kept + him silent. +</p> +<p> + "I would not propose to you," continued Sir Arthur, "to oblige me thus + far, if I did not possess actual proofs of the reality of those + expectations which I now hold out to you. And I assure you, Mr. Oldbuck, + that in entering fully upon this topic, it is my purpose to show my + confidence in you, and my sense of your kindness on many former + occasions." +</p> +<p> + Mr. Oldbuck professed his sense of obligation, but carefully avoided + committing himself by any promise of farther assistance. +</p> +<p> + "Mr. Dousterswivel," said Sir Arthur, "having discovered"— +</p> +<p> + Here Oldbuck broke in, his eyes sparkling with indignation. "Sir Arthur, + I have so often warned you of the knavery of that rascally quack, that I + really wonder you should quote him to me." +</p> +<p> + "But listen—listen," interrupted Sir Arthur in his turn, "it will do you + no harm. In short, Dousterswivel persuaded me to witness an experiment + which he had made in the ruins of St. Ruth—and what do you think we + found?" +</p> +<p> + "Another spring of water, I suppose, of which the rogue had beforehand + taken care to ascertain the situation and source." +</p> +<p> + "No, indeed—a casket of gold and silver coins—here they are." +</p> +<p> + With that, Sir Arthur drew from his pocket a large ram's horn, with a + copper cover, containing a considerable quantity of coins, chiefly + silver, but with a few gold pieces intermixed. The Antiquary's eyes + glistened as he eagerly spread them out on the table. +</p> +<p> + "Upon my word—Scotch, English, and foreign coins, of the fifteenth and + sixteenth centuries, and some of them <i>rari—et rariores—etiam + rarissimi!</i> Here is the bonnet-piece of James V., the unicorn of James + II.,—ay, and the gold festoon of Queen Mary, with her head and the + Dauphin's. And these were really found in the ruins of St. Ruth?" +</p> +<p> + "Most assuredly—my own eyes witnessed it." +</p> +<p> + "Well," replied Oldbuck; "but you must tell me the when—the where-the + how." +</p> +<p> + "The when," answered Sir Arthur, "was at midnight the last full moon—the + where, as I have told you, in the ruins of St. Ruth's priory—the how, + was by a nocturnal experiment of Dousterswivel, accompanied only by + myself." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed!" said Oldbuck; "and what means of discovery did you employ?" +</p> +<p> + "Only a simple suffumigation," said the Baronet, "accompanied by availing + ourselves of the suitable planetary hour." +</p> +<p> + "Simple suffumigation? simple nonsensification—planetary hour? planetary + fiddlestick! <i>Sapiens dominabitur astris.</i> My dear Sir Arthur, that + fellow has made a gull of you above ground and under ground, and he would + have made a gull of you in the air too, if he had been by when you was + craned up the devil's turnpike yonder at Halket-head—to be sure the + transformation would have been then peculiarly <i>apropos.</i>" +</p> +<p> + "Well, Mr. Oldbuck, I am obliged to you for your indifferent opinion of + my discernment; but I think you will give me credit for having seen what + I <i>say</i> I saw." +</p> +<p> + "Certainly, Sir Arthur," said the Antiquary,—"to this extent at least, + that I know Sir Arthur Wardour will not say he saw anything but what he + <i>thought</i> he saw." +</p> +<p> + "Well, then," replied the Baronet, "as there is a heaven above us, Mr. + Oldbuck, I saw, with my own eyes, these coins dug out of the chancel of + St. Ruth at midnight. And as to Dousterswivel, although the discovery be + owing to his science, yet, to tell the truth, I do not think he would + have had firmness of mind to have gone through with it if I had not been + beside him." +</p> +<p> + "Ay! indeed?" said Oldbuck, in the tone used when one wishes to hear the + end of a story before making any comment. +</p> +<p> + "Yes truly," continued Sir Arthur—"I assure you I was upon my guard—we + did hear some very uncommon sounds, that is certain, proceeding from + among the ruins." +</p> +<p> + "Oh, you did?" said Oldbuck; "an accomplice hid among them, I suppose?" +</p> +<p> + "Not a jot," said the Baronet;—"the sounds, though of a hideous and + preternatural character, rather resembled those of a man who sneezes + violently than any other—one deep groan I certainly heard besides; and + Dousterswivel assures me that he beheld the spirit Peolphan, the Great + Hunter of the North—(look for him in your Nicolaus Remigius, or Petrus + Thyracus, Mr. Oldbuck)—who mimicked the motion of snuff-taking and its + effects." +</p> +<p> + "These indications, however singular as proceeding from such a personage, + seem to have been <i>apropos</i> to the matter," said the Antiquary; "for you + see the case, which includes these coins, has all the appearance of being + an old-fashioned Scottish snuff-mill. But you persevered, in spite of the + terrors of this sneezing goblin?" +</p> +<p> + "Why, I think it probable that a man of inferior sense or consequence + might have given way; but I was jealous of an imposture, conscious of the + duty I owed to my family in maintaining my courage under every + contingency, and therefore I compelled Dousterswivel, by actual and + violent threats, to proceed with what he was about to do;—and, sir, the + proof of his skill and honesty is this parcel of gold and silver pieces, + out of which I beg you to select such coins or medals as will best suit + your collection." +</p> +<p> + "Why, Sir Arthur, since you are so good, and on condition you will permit + me to mark the value according to Pinkerton's catalogue and appreciation, + against your account in my red book, I will with pleasure select"— +</p> +<p> + "Nay," said Sir Arthur Wardour, "I do not mean you should consider them + as anything but a gift of friendship and least of all would I stand by + the valuation of your friend Pinkerton, who has impugned the ancient and + trustworthy authorities upon which, as upon venerable and moss-grown + pillars, the credit of Scottish antiquities reposed." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, ay," rejoined Oldbuck, "you mean, I suppose, Mair and Boece, the + Jachin and Boaz, not of history but of falsification and forgery. And + notwithstanding all you have told me, I look on your friend Dousterswivel + to be as apocryphal as any of them." +</p> +<p> + "Why then, Mr. Oldbuck," said Sir Arthur, "not to awaken old disputes, I + suppose you think, that because I believe in the ancient history of my + country, I have neither eyes nor ears to ascertain what modern events + pass before me?" +</p> +<p> + "Pardon me, Sir Arthur," rejoined the Antiquary; "but I consider all the + affectation of terror which this worthy gentleman, your coadjutor, chose + to play off, as being merely one part of his trick or mystery. And with + respect to the gold or silver coins, they are so mixed and mingled in + country and date, that I cannot suppose they could be any genuine hoard, + and rather suppose them to be, like the purses upon the table of + Hudibras's lawyer— +</p> +<pre> + —Money placed for show, + Like nest-eggs, to make clients lay, + And for his false opinions pay.— +</pre> +<p> + It is the trick of all professions, my dear Sir Arthur. Pray, may I ask + you how much this discovery cost you?" +</p> +<p> + "About ten guineas." +</p> +<p> + "And you have gained what is equivalent to twenty in actual bullion, and + what may be perhaps worth as much more to such fools as ourselves, who + are willing to pay for curiosity. This was allowing you a tempting profit + on the first hazard, I must needs admit. And what is the next venture he + proposes?" +</p> +<p> + "An hundred and fifty pounds;—I have given him one-third part of the + money, and I thought it likely you might assist me with the balance." +</p> +<p> + "I should think that this cannot be meant as a parting blow—is not of + weight and importance sufficient; he will probably let us win this hand + also, as sharpers manage a raw gamester.—Sir Arthur, I hope you believe + I would serve you?" +</p> +<p> + "Certainly, Mr. Oldbuck; I think my confidence in you on these occasions + leaves no room to doubt that." +</p> +<p> + "Well, then, allow me to speak to Dousterswivel. If the money can be + advanced usefully and advantageously for you, why, for old + neighbourhood's sake, you shall not want it but if, as I think, I can + recover the treasure for you without making such an advance, you will, + I presume, have no objection!" +</p> +<p> + "Unquestionably, I can have none whatsoever." +</p> +<p> + "Then where is Dousterswivel?" continued the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "To tell you the truth, he is in my carriage below; but knowing your + prejudice against him"— +</p> +<p> + "I thank Heaven, I am not prejudiced against any man, Sir Arthur: it is + systems, not individuals, that incur my reprobation." He rang the bell. + "Jenny, Sir Arthur and I offer our compliments to Mr. Dousterswivel, the + gentleman in Sir Arthur's carriage, and beg to have the pleasure of + speaking with him here." +</p> +<p> + Jenny departed and delivered her message. It had been by no means a part + of the project of Dousterswivel to let Mr. Oldbuck into his supposed + mystery. He had relied upon Sir Arthur's obtaining the necessary + accommodation without any discussion as to the nature of the application, + and only waited below for the purpose of possessing himself of the + deposit as soon as possible, for he foresaw that his career was drawing + to a close. But when summoned to the presence of Sir Arthur and Mr. + Oldbuck, he resolved gallantly to put confidence in his powers of + impudence, of which, the reader may have observed, his natural share was + very liberal. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0002"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER SECOND. +</h2> +<pre> + —And this Doctor, + Your sooty smoky-bearded compeer, he + Will close you so much gold in a bolt's head, + And, on a turn, convey in the stead another + With sublimed mercury, that shall burst i' the heat, + And all fly out <i>in fumo.</i>— + The Alchemist. +</pre> +<p> + "How do you do, goot Mr. Oldenbuck? and I do hope your young gentleman, + Captain M'Intyre, is getting better again? Ach! it is a bat business when + young gentlemens will put lead balls into each other's body." +</p> +<p> + "Lead adventures of all kinds are very precarious, Mr. Dousterswivel; but + I am happy to learn," continued the Antiquary, "from my friend Sir + Arthur, that you have taken up a better trade, and become a discoverer of + gold." +</p> +<p> + "Ach, Mr. Oldenbuck, mine goot and honoured patron should not have told a + word about dat little matter; for, though I have all reliance—yes, + indeed, on goot Mr. Oldenbuck's prudence and discretion, and his great + friendship for Sir Arthur Wardour—yet, my heavens! it is an great + ponderous secret." +</p> +<p> + "More ponderous than any of the metal we shall make by it, I fear," + answered Oldbuck. +</p> +<p> + "Dat is just as you shall have de faith and de patience for de grand + experiment—If you join wid Sir Arthur, as he is put one hundred and + fifty—see, here is one fifty in your dirty Fairport bank-note—you put + one other hundred and fifty in de dirty notes, and you shall have de pure + gold and silver, I cannot tell how much." +</p> +<p> + "Nor any one for you, I believe," said the Antiquary. "But, hark you, Mr. + Dousterswivel: Suppose, without troubling this same sneezing spirit with + any farther fumigations, we should go in a body, and having fair + day-light and our good consciences to befriend us, using no other + conjuring implements than good substantial pick-axes and shovels, fairly + trench the area of the chancel in the ruins of St. Ruth, from one end to + the other, and so ascertain the existence of this supposed treasure, + without putting ourselves to any farther expense—the ruins belong to Sir + Arthur himself, so there can be no objection—do you think we shall + succeed in this way of managing the matter?" +</p> +<p> + "Bah!—you will not find one copper thimble—But Sir Arthur will do his + pleasure. I have showed him how it is possible—very possible—to have de + great sum of money for his occasions—I have showed him de real + experiment. If he likes not to believe, goot Mr. Oldenbuck, it is nothing + to Herman Dousterswivel—he only loses de money and de gold and de + silvers—dat is all." +</p> +<p> + Sir Arthur Wardour cast an intimidated glance at Oldbuck who, especially + when present, held, notwithstanding their frequent difference of opinion, + no ordinary influence over his sentiments. In truth, the Baronet felt, + what he would not willingly have acknowledged, that his genius stood + rebuked before that of the Antiquary. He respected him as a shrewd, + penetrating, sarcastic character—feared his satire, and had some + confidence in the general soundness of his opinions. He therefore looked + at him as if desiring his leave before indulging his credulity. + Dousterswivel saw he was in danger of losing his dupe, unless he could + make some favourable impression on the adviser. +</p> +<p> + "I know, my goot Mr. Oldenbuck, it is one vanity to speak to you about de + spirit and de goblin. But look at this curious horn;—I know, you know de + curiosity of all de countries, and how de great Oldenburgh horn, as they + keep still in the Museum at Copenhagen, was given to de Duke of + Oldenburgh by one female spirit of de wood. Now I could not put one trick + on you if I were willing—you who know all de curiosity so well—and dere + it is de horn full of coins;—if it had been a box or case, I would have + said nothing." +</p> +<p> + "Being a horn," said Oldbuck, "does indeed strengthen your argument. It + was an implement of nature's fashioning, and therefore much used among + rude nations, although, it may be, the metaphorical horn is more frequent + in proportion to the progress of civilisation. And this present horn," he + continued, rubbing it upon his sleeve, "is a curious and venerable relic, + and no doubt was intended to prove a <i>cornucopia,</i> or horn of plenty, to + some one or other; but whether to the adept or his patron, may be justly + doubted." +</p> +<p> + "Well, Mr. Oldenbuck, I find you still hard of belief—but let me assure + you, de monksh understood de <i>magisterium.</i>" +</p> +<p> + "Let us leave talking of the <i>magisterium,</i> Mr. Dousterswivel, and think + a little about the magistrate. Are you aware that this occupation of + yours is against the law of Scotland, and that both Sir Arthur and myself + are in the commission of the peace?" +</p> +<p> + "Mine heaven! and what is dat to de purpose when I am doing you all de + goot I can?" +</p> +<p> + "Why, you must know that when the legislature abolished the cruel laws + against witchcraft, they had no hope of destroying the superstitious + feelings of humanity on which such chimeras had been founded; and to + prevent those feelings from being tampered with by artful and designing + persons, it is enacted by the ninth of George the Second, chap. 5, that + whosoever shall pretend, by his alleged skill in any occult or crafty + science, to discover such goods as are lost, stolen or concealed, he + shall suffer punishment by pillory and imprisonment, as a common cheat + and impostor." +</p> +<p> + "And is dat de laws?" asked Dousterswivel, with some agitation. +</p> +<p> + "Thyself shall see the act," replied the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "Den, gentlemens, I shall take my leave of you, dat is all; I do not like + to stand on your what you call pillory—it is very bad way to take de + air, I think; and I do not like your prisons no more, where one cannot + take de air at all." +</p> +<p> + "If such be your taste, Mr. Dousterswivel," said the Antiquary, "I advise + you to stay where you are, for I cannot let you go, unless it be in the + society of a constable; and, moreover, I expect you will attend us just + now to the ruins of St. Ruth, and point out the place where you propose + to find this treasure." +</p> +<p> + "Mine heaven, Mr. Oldenbuck! what usage is this to your old friend, when + I tell you so plain as I can speak, dat if you go now, you will not get + so much treasure as one poor shabby sixpence?" +</p> +<p> + "I will try the experiment, however, and you shall be dealt with + according to its success,—always with Sir Arthur's permission." +</p> +<pre> +Sir Arthur, during this investigation, had looked extremely embarrassed, +and, to use a vulgar but expressive phrase, chop-fallen. Oldbuck's +obstinate disbelief led him strongly to suspect the imposture of +Dousterswivel, and the adept's mode of keeping his ground was less +resolute than he had expected. Yet he did not entirely give him up. + + "Mr. Oldbuck," said the Baronet, "you do Mr. Dousterswivel less than +justice. He has undertaken to make this discovery by the use of his art, +and by applying characters descriptive of the Intelligences presiding +over the planetary hour in which the experiment is to be made; and you +require him to proceed, under pain of punishment, without allowing him +the use of any of the preliminaries which he considers as the means of +procuring success." +</pre> +<p> + "I did not say that exactly—I only required him to be present when we + make the search, and not to leave us during the interval. I fear he may + have some intelligence with the Intelligences you talk of, and that + whatever may be now hidden at Saint Ruth may disappear before we get + there." +</p> +<p> + "Well, gentlemens," said Dousterswivel, sullenly, "I will make no + objections to go along with you but I tell you beforehand, you shall not + find so much of anything as shall be worth your going twenty yard from + your own gate." +</p> +<p> + "We will put that to a fair trial," said the Antiquary; and the Baronet's + equipage being ordered, Miss Wardour received an intimation from her + father, that she was to remain at Monkbarns until his return from an + airing. The young lady was somewhat at a loss to reconcile this direction + with the communication which she supposed must have passed between Sir + Arthur and the Antiquary; but she was compelled, for the present, to + remain in a most unpleasant state of suspense. +</p> +<p> + The journey of the treasure-seekers was melancholy enough. Dousterswivel + maintained a sulky silence, brooding at once over disappointed + expectation and the risk of punishment; Sir Arthur, whose golden dreams + had been gradually fading away, surveyed, in gloomy prospect, the + impending difficulties of his situation; and Oldbuck, who perceived that + his having so far interfered in his neighbours affairs gave the Baronet a + right to expect some actual and efficient assistance, sadly pondered to + what extent it would be necessary to draw open the strings of his purse. + Thus each being wrapped in his own unpleasant ruminations, there was + hardly a word said on either side, until they reached the Four + Horse-shoes, by which sign the little inn was distinguished. They + procured at this place the necessary assistance and implements for + digging, and, while they were busy about these preparations, were + suddenly joined by the old beggar, Edie Ochiltree. +</p> +<p> + "The Lord bless your honour," began the Blue-Gown, with the genuine + mendicant whine, "and long life to you!—weel pleased am I to hear that + young Captain M'Intyre is like to be on his legs again sune—Think on + your poor bedesman the day." +</p> +<p> + "Aha, old true-penny!" replied the Antiquary. "Why, thou hast never come + to Monkbarns since thy perils by rock and flood—here's something for + thee to buy snuff,"—and, fumbling for his purse, he pulled out at the + same time the horn which enclosed the coins. +</p> +<p> + "Ay, and there's something to pit it in," said the mendicant, eyeing the + ram's horn—"that loom's an auld acquaintance o' mine. I could take my + aith to that sneeshing-mull amang a thousand—I carried it for mony a + year, till I niffered it for this tin ane wi' auld George Glen, the + dammer and sinker, when he took a fancy till't doun at Glen-Withershins + yonder." +</p> +<p> + "Ay! indeed?" said Oldbuck;—"so you exchanged it with a miner? but I + presume you never saw it so well filled before"—and opening it, he + showed the coins. +</p> +<p> + "Troth, ye may swear that, Monkbarns: when it was mine it neer had abune + the like o' saxpenny worth o' black rappee in't at ance. But I reckon + ye'll be gaun to mak an antic o't, as ye hae dune wi' mony an orra thing + besides. Od, I wish anybody wad mak an antic o' me; but mony ane will + find worth in rousted bits o' capper and horn and airn, that care unco + little about an auld carle o' their ain country and kind." +</p> +<p> + "You may now guess," said Oldbuck, turning to Sir Arthur, "to whose good + offices you were indebted the other night. To trace this cornucopia of + yours to a miner, is bringing it pretty near a friend of ours—I hope we + shall be as successful this morning, without paying for it." +</p> +<p> + "And whare is your honours gaun the day," said the mendicant, "wi' a' + your picks and shules?—Od, this will be some o' your tricks, Monkbarns: + ye'll be for whirling some o' the auld monks down by yonder out o' their + graves afore they hear the last call—but, wi' your leave, I'se follow ye + at ony rate, and see what ye mak o't." +</p> +<p> + The party soon arrived at the ruins of the priory, and, having gained the + chancel, stood still to consider what course they were to pursue next. + The Antiquary, meantime, addressed the adept. +</p> +<p> + "Pray, Mr. Dousterswivel, what is your advice in this matter? Shall we + have most likelihood of success if we dig from east to west, or from west + to east?—or will you assist us with your triangular vial of May-dew, or + with your divining-rod of witches-hazel?—or will you have the goodness + to supply us with a few thumping blustering terms of art, which, if they + fail in our present service, may at least be useful to those who have not + the happiness to be bachelors, to still their brawling children withal?" +</p> +<p> + "Mr. Oldenbuck," said Dousterswivel, doggedly, "I have told you already + that you will make no good work at all, and I will find some way of mine + own to thank you for your civilities to me—yes, indeed." +</p> +<p> + "If your honours are thinking of tirling the floor," said old Edie, "and + wad but take a puir body's advice, I would begin below that muckle stane + that has the man there streekit out upon his back in the midst o't." +</p> +<p> + "I have some reason for thinking favourably of that plan myself," said + the Baronet. +</p> +<p> + "And I have nothing to say against it," said Oldbuck: "it was not unusual + to hide treasure in the tombs of the deceased—many instances might be + quoted of that from Bartholinus and others." +</p> +<p> + The tombstone, the same beneath which the coins had been found by Sir + Arthur and the German, was once more forced aside, and the earth gave + easy way to the spade. +</p> +<p> + "It's travell'd earth that," said Edie, "it howks gae eithly—I ken it + weel, for ance I wrought a simmer wi' auld Will Winnet, the bedral, and + howkit mair graves than ane in my day; but I left him in winter, for it + was unco cald wark; and then it cam a green Yule, and the folk died thick + and fast—for ye ken a green Yule makes a fat kirkyard; and I never dowed + to bide a hard turn o' wark in my life—sae aff I gaed, and left Will to + delve his last dwellings by himsell for Edie." +</p> +<p> + The diggers were now so far advanced in their labours as to discover that + the sides of the grave which they were clearing out had been originally + secured by four walls of freestone, forming a parallelogram, for the + reception, probably, of the coffin. +</p> +<p> + "It is worth while proceeding in our labours," said the Antiquary to Sir + Arthur, "were it but for curiosity's sake. I wonder on whose sepulchre + they have bestowed such uncommon pains." +</p> +<p> + "The arms on the shield," said Sir Arthur, and sighed as he spoke it, + "are the same with those on Misticot's tower, supposed to have been built + by Malcolm the usurper. No man knew where he was buried, and there is an + old prophecy in our family, that bodes us no good when his grave shall be + discovered." +</p> +<p> + "I wot," said the beggar, "I have often heard that when I was a bairn— +</p> +<pre> + If Malcolm the Misticot's grave were fun', + The lands of Knockwinnock were lost and won." +</pre> +<p> + Oldbuck, with his spectacles on his nose, had already knelt down on the + monument, and was tracing, partly with his eye, partly with his finger, + the mouldered devices upon the effigy of the deceased warrior. "It is the + Knockwinnock arms, sure enough," he exclaimed, "quarterly with the coat + of Wardour." +</p> +<p> + "Richard, called the red-handed Wardour, married Sybil Knockwinnock, the + heiress of the Saxon family, and by that alliance," said Sir Arthur, + "brought the castle and estate into the name of Wardour, in the year of + God 1150." +</p> +<p> + "Very true, Sir Arthur; and here is the baton-sinister, the mark of + illegitimacy, extended diagonally through both coats upon the shield. + Where can our eyes have been, that they did not see this curious monument + before?" +</p> +<p> + "Na, whare was the through-stane, that it didna come before our een till + e'enow?" said Ochiltree; "for I hae ken'd this auld kirk, man and bairn, + for saxty lang years, and I neer noticed it afore; and it's nae sic mote + neither, but what ane might see it in their parritch." +</p> +<p> + All were now induced to tax their memory as to the former state of the + ruins in that corner of the chancel, and all agreed in recollecting a + considerable pile of rubbish which must have been removed and spread + abroad in order to make the tomb visible. Sir Arthur might, indeed, have + remembered seeing the monument on the former occasion, but his mind was + too much agitated to attend to the circumstance as a novelty. +</p> +<p> + While the assistants were engaged in these recollections and discussions, + the workmen proceeded with their labour. They had already dug to the + depth of nearly five feet, and as the flinging out the soil became more + and more difficult, they began at length to tire of the job. +</p> +<p> + "We're down to the till now," said one of them, "and the neer a coffin or + onything else is here—some cunninger chiel's been afore us, I reckon;"— + and the labourer scrambled out of the grave. +</p> +<p> + "Hout, lad," said Edie, getting down in his room—"let me try my hand for + an auld bedral;—ye're gude seekers, but ill finders." +</p> +<p> + So soon as he got into the grave, he struck his pike-staff forcibly down; + it encountered resistance in its descent, and the beggar exclaimed, like + a Scotch schoolboy when he finds anything, "Nae halvers and quarters— + hale o' mine ain and 'nane o' my neighbour's." +</p> +<p> + Everybody, from the dejected Baronet to the sullen adept, now caught the + spirit of curiosity, crowded round the grave, and would have jumped into + it, could its space have contained them. The labourers, who had begun to + flag in their monotonous and apparently hopeless task, now resumed their + tools, and plied them with all the ardour of expectation. Their shovels + soon grated upon a hard wooden surface, which, as the earth was cleared + away, assumed the distinct form of a chest, but greatly smaller than that + of a coffin. Now all hands were at work to heave it out of the grave, and + all voices, as it was raised, proclaimed its weight and augured its + value. They were not mistaken. +</p> +<p> + When the chest or box was placed on the surface, and the lid forced up by + a pickaxe, there was displayed first a coarse canvas cover, then a + quantity of oakum, and beneath that a number of ingots of silver. A + general exclamation hailed a discovery so surprising and unexpected. The + Baronet threw his hands and eyes up to heaven, with the silent rapture of + one who is delivered from inexpressible distress of mind. Oldbuck, almost + unable to credit his eyes, lifted one piece of silver after another. + There was neither inscription nor stamp upon them, excepting one, which + seemed to be Spanish. He could have no doubt of the purity and great + value of the treasure before him. Still, however, removing piece by + piece, he examined row by row, expecting to discover that the lower + layers were of inferior value; but he could perceive no difference in + this respect, and found himself compelled to admit, that Sir Arthur had + possessed himself of bullion to the value, perhaps of a thousand pounds + sterling. Sir Arthur now promised the assistants a handsome recompense + for their trouble, and began to busy himself about the mode of conveying + this rich windfall to the Castle of Knockwinnock, when the adept, + recovering from his surprise, which had equalled that exhibited by any + other individual of the party, twitched his sleeve, and having offered + his humble congratulations, turned next to Oldbuck with an air of + triumph. +</p> +<p> + "I did tell you, my goot friend, Mr. Oldenbuck, dat I was to seek + opportunity to thank you for your civility; now do you not think I have + found out vary goot way to return thank?" +</p> +<p> + "Why, Mr. Dousterswivel, do you pretend to have had any hand in our good + success?—you forget you refused us all aid of your science, man; and you + are here without your weapons that should have fought the battle which + you pretend to have gained in our behalf: you have used neither charm, + lamen, sigil, talisman, spell, crystal, pentacle, magic mirror, nor + geomantic figure. Where be your periapts, and your abracadabras man? your + Mayfern, your vervain, +</p> +<pre> + Your toad, your crow, your dragon, and your panther, + Your sun, your moon, your firmament, your adrop, + Your Lato, Azoch, Zernich, Chibrit, Heautarit, + With all your broths, your menstrues, your materials, + Would burst a man to name?— +</pre> +<p> + Ah! rare Ben Jonson! long peace to thy ashes for a scourge of the quacks + of thy day!—who expected to see them revive in our own?" +</p> +<p> + The answer of the adept to the Antiquary's tirade we must defer to our + next CHAPTER. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0003"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER THIRD. +</h2> +<pre> + <i>Clause.</i>—You now shall know the king o' the beggars' treasure:— + Yes—ere to-morrow you shall find your harbour + Here,—fail me not, for if I live I'll fit you. + The Beggar's Bush. +</pre> +<p> + The German, determined, it would seem, to assert the vantage-ground on + which the discovery had placed him, replied with great pomp and + stateliness to the attack of the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "Maister Oldenbuck, all dis may be very witty and comedy, but I have + nothing to say—nothing at all—to people dat will not believe deir own + eye-sights. It is vary true dat I ave not any of de things of de art, and + it makes de more wonder what I has done dis day. But I would ask of you, + mine honoured and goot and generous patron, to put your hand into your + right-hand waistcoat pocket, and show me what you shall find dere." +</p> +<p> + Sir Arthur obeyed his direction, and pulled out the small plate of silver + which he had used under the adept's auspices upon the former occasion. + "It is very true," said Sir Arthur, looking gravely at the Antiquary; + "this is the graduated and calculated sigil by which Mr. Dousterswivel + and I regulated our first discovery." +</p> +<p> + "Pshaw! pshaw! my dear friend," said Oldbuck, "you are too wise to + believe in the influence of a trumpery crown-piece, beat out thin, and a + parcel of scratches upon it. I tell thee, Sir Arthur, that if + Dousterswivel had known where to get this treasure himself, you would not + have been lord of the least share of it." +</p> +<p> + "In troth, please your honour," said Edie, who put in his word on all + occasions, "I think, since Mr. Dunkerswivel has had sae muckle merit in + discovering a' the gear, the least ye can do is to gie him that o't + that's left behind for his labour; for doubtless he that kend where to + find sae muckle will hae nae difficulty to find mair." +</p> +<p> + Dousterswivel's brow grew very dark at this proposal of leaving him to + his "ain purchase," as Ochiltree expressed it; but the beggar, drawing + him aside, whispered a word or two in his ear, to which he seemed to give + serious attention, +</p> +<p> + Meanwhile Sir Arthur, his heart warm with his good fortune, said aloud, + "Never mind our friend Monkbarns, Mr. Dousterswivel, but come to the + Castle to-morrow, and I'll convince you that I am not ungrateful for the + hints you have given me about this matter—and the fifty Fairport dirty + notes, as you call them, are heartily at your service. Come, my lads, get + the cover of this precious chest fastened up again." +</p> +<p> + But the cover had in the confusion fallen aside among the rubbish, or the + loose earth which had been removed from the grave—in short, it was not + to be seen. +</p> +<p> + "Never mind, my good lads, tie the tarpaulin over it, and get it away to + the carriage.—Monkbarns, will you walk? I must go back your way to take + up Miss Wardour." +</p> +<p> + "And, I hope, to take up your dinner also, Sir Arthur, and drink a glass + of wine for joy of our happy adventure. Besides, you should write about + the business to the Exchequer, in case of any interference on the part of + the Crown. As you are lord of the manor, it will be easy to get a deed of + gift, should they make any claim. We must talk about it, though." +</p> +<p> + "And I particularly recommend silence to all who are present," said Sir + Arthur, looking round. All bowed and professed themselves dumb. +</p> +<p> + "Why, as to that," said Monkbarns, "recommending secrecy where a dozen of + people are acquainted with the circumstance to be concealed, is only + putting the truth in masquerade, for the story will be circulated under + twenty different shapes. But never mind—we will state the true one to + the Barons, and that is all that is necessary." +</p> +<p> + "I incline to send off an express to-night," said the Baronet. +</p> +<p> + "I can recommend your honour to a sure hand," said Ochiltree; "little + Davie Mailsetter, and the butcher's reisting powny." +</p> +<p> + "We will talk over the matter as we go to Monkbarns," said Sir Arthur. + "My lads" (to the work-people), "come with me to the Four Horse-shoes, + that I may take down all your names.—Dousterswivel, I won't ask you to + go down to Monkbarns, as the laird and you differ so widely in opinion; + but do not fail to come to see me to-morrow." +</p> +<p> + Dousterswivel growled out an answer, in which the words, "duty,"—"mine + honoured patron,"—and "wait upon Sir Arthurs,"—were alone + distinguishable; and after the Baronet and his friend had left the ruins, + followed by the servants and workmen, who, in hope of reward and whisky, + joyfully attended their leader, the adept remained in a brown study by + the side of the open grave. +</p> +<p> + "Who was it as could have thought this?" he ejaculated unconsciously. + "Mine heiligkeit! I have heard of such things, and often spoken of such + things—but, sapperment! I never, thought to see them! And if I had gone + but two or dree feet deeper down in the earth—mein himmel! it had been + all mine own—so much more as I have been muddling about to get from this + fool's man." +</p> +<p> + Here the German ceased his soliloquy, for, raising his eyes, he + encountered those of Edie Ochiltree, who had not followed the rest of the + company, but, resting as usual on his pike-staff, had planted himself on + the other side of the grave. The features of the old man, naturally + shrewd and expressive almost to an appearance of knavery, seemed in this + instance so keenly knowing, that even the assurance of Dousterswivel, + though a professed adventurer, sunk beneath their glances. But he saw the + necessity of an e'claircissement, and, rallying his spirits, instantly + began to sound the mendicant on the occurrences of the day. "Goot Maister + Edies Ochiltrees"— +</p> +<p> + "Edie Ochiltree, nae maister—your puir bedesman and the king's," + answered the Blue-Gown. +</p> +<p> + "Awell den, goot Edie, what do you think of all dis?" +</p> +<p> + "I was just thinking it was very kind (for I darena say very simple) o' + your honour to gie thae twa rich gentles, wha hae lands and lairdships, + and siller without end, this grand pose o' silver and treasure (three + times tried in the fire, as the Scripture expresses it), that might hae + made yoursell and ony twa or three honest bodies beside, as happy and + content as the day was lang." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed, Edie, mine honest friends, dat is very true; only I did not + know, dat is, I was not sure, where to find the gelt myself." +</p> +<p> + "What! was it not by your honours advice and counsel that Monkbarns and + the Knight of Knockwinnock came here then?" +</p> +<p> + "Aha—yes; but it was by another circumstance. I did not know dat dey + would have found de treasure, mine friend; though I did guess, by such a + tintamarre, and cough, and sneeze, and groan, among de spirit one other + night here, dat there might be treasure and bullion hereabout. Ach, mein + himmel! the spirit will hone and groan over his gelt, as if he were a + Dutch Burgomaster counting his dollars after a great dinner at the + Stadthaus." +</p> +<p> + "And do you really believe the like o' that, Mr. Dusterdeevil!—a + skeelfu' man like you—hout fie!" +</p> +<p> + "Mein friend," answered the adept, foreed by circumstances to speak + something nearer the truth than he generally used to do, "I believed it + no more than you and no man at all, till I did hear them hone and moan + and groan myself on de oder night, and till I did this day see de cause, + which was an great chest all full of de pure silver from Mexico—and what + would you ave nae think den?" +</p> +<p> + "And what wad ye gie to ony ane," said Edie, "that wad help ye to sic + another kistfu' o' silver!" +</p> +<p> + "Give?—mein himmel!—one great big quarter of it." +</p> +<p> + "Now if the secret were mine," said the mendicant, "I wad stand out for a + half; for you see, though I am but a puir ragged body, and couldna carry + silver or gowd to sell for fear o' being taen up, yet I could find mony + folk would pass it awa for me at unco muckle easier profit than ye're + thinking on." +</p> +<p> + "Ach, himmel!—Mein goot friend, what was it I said?—I did mean to say + you should have de tree quarter for your half, and de one quarter to be + my fair half." +</p> +<p> + "No, no, Mr. Dusterdeevil, we will divide equally what we find, like + brother and brother. Now, look at this board that I just flung into the + dark aisle out o' the way, while Monkbarns was glowering ower a' the + silver yonder. He's a sharp chiel Monkbarns—I was glad to keep the like + o' this out o' his sight. Ye'll maybe can read the character better than + me—I am nae that book learned, at least I'm no that muckle in practice." +</p> +<p> + With this modest declaration of ignorance, Ochiltree brought forth from + behind a pillar the cover of the box or chest of treasure, which, when + forced from its hinges, had been carelessly flung aside during the ardour + of curiosity to ascertain the contents which it concealed, and had been + afterwards, as it seems, secreted by the mendicant. There was a word and + a number upon the plank, and the beggar made them more distinct by + spitting upon his ragged blue handkerchief, and rubbing off the clay by + which the inscription was obscured. It was in the ordinary black letter. +</p> +<p> + "Can ye mak ought o't?" said Edie to the adept. +</p> +<p> + "S," said the philosopher, like a child getting his lesson in the + primer—"S, T, A, R, C, H,—<i>Starch!</i>—dat is what de woman-washers put into de + neckerchers, and de shirt collar." +</p> +<p> + "Search!" echoed Ochiltree; "na, na, Mr. Dusterdeevil, ye are mair of a + conjuror than a clerk—it's <i>search,</i> man, <i>search</i>—See, there's the + <i>Ye</i> clear and distinct." +</p> +<p> + "Aha! I see it now—it is <i>search—number one.</i> Mein himmel! then there + must be a <i>number two,</i> mein goot friend: for <i>search</i> is what you call + to seek and dig, and this is but <i>number one!</i> Mine wort, there is one + great big prize in de wheel for us, goot Maister Ochiltree." +</p> +<p> + "Aweel, it may be sae; but we canna howk fort enow—we hae nae shules, + for they hae taen them a' awa—and it's like some o' them will be sent + back to fling the earth into the hole, and mak a' things trig again. But + an ye'll sit down wi' me a while in the wood, I'se satisfy your honour + that ye hae just lighted on the only man in the country that could hae + tauld about Malcolm Misticot and his hidden treasure—But first we'll rub + out the letters on this board, for fear it tell tales." +</p> +<p> + And, by the assistance of his knife, the beggar erased and defaced the + characters so as to make them quite unintelligible, and then daubed the + board with clay so as to obliterate all traces of the erasure. +</p> +<p> + Dousterswivel stared at him in ambiguous silence. There was an + intelligence and alacrity about all the old man's movements, which + indicated a person that could not be easily overreached, and yet (for + even rogues acknowledge in some degree the spirit of precedence) our + adept felt the disgrace of playing a secondary part, and dividing + winnings with so mean an associate. His appetite for gain, however, was + sufficiently sharp to overpower his offended pride, and though far more + an impostor than a dupe, he was not without a certain degree of personal + faith even in the gross superstitions by means of which he imposed upon + others. Still, being accustomed to act as a leader on such occasions, he + felt humiliated at feeling himself in the situation of a vulture + marshalled to his prey by a carrion-crow.—"Let me, however, hear this + story to an end," thought Dousterswivel, "and it will be hard if I do not + make mine account in it better as Maister Edie Ochiltrees makes + proposes." +</p> +<p> + The adept, thus transformed into a pupil from a teacher of the mystic + art, followed Ochiltree in passive acquiescence to the Prior's Oak—a + spot, as the reader may remember, at a short distance from the ruins, + where the German sat down, and silence waited the old man's + communication. +</p> +<p> + "Maister Dustandsnivel," said the narrator, "it's an unco while since I + heard this business treated anent;—for the lairds of Knockwinnock, + neither Sir Arthur, nor his father, nor his grandfather—and I mind a wee + bit about them a'—liked to hear it spoken about; nor they dinna like it + yet—But nae matter; ye may be sure it was clattered about in the + kitchen, like onything else in a great house, though it were forbidden in + the ha'—and sae I hae heard the circumstance rehearsed by auld servants + in the family; and in thir present days, when things o' that auld-warld + sort arena keepit in mind round winter fire-sides as they used to be, I + question if there's onybody in the country can tell the tale but mysell— + aye out-taken the laird though, for there's a parchment book about it, as + I have heard, in the charter-room at Knockwinnock Castle." +</p> +<p> + "Well, all dat is vary well—but get you on with your stories, mine goot + friend," said Dousterswivel. +</p> +<p> + "Aweel, ye see," continued the mendicant, "this was a job in the auld + times o' rugging and riving through the hale country, when it was ilka + ane for himsell, and God for us a'—when nae man wanted property if he + had strength to take it, or had it langer than he had power to keep it. + It was just he ower her, and she ower him, whichever could win upmost, a' + through the east country here, and nae doubt through the rest o' Scotland + in the self and same manner. +</p> +<p> + "Sae in these days Sir Richard Wardour came into the land, and that was + the first o' the name ever was in this country. There's been mony o' them + sin' syne; and the maist, like him they ca'd Hell-in-Harness, and the + rest o' them, are sleeping down in yon ruins. They were a proud dour set + o' men, but unco brave, and aye stood up for the weel o' the country, God + sain them a'—there's no muckle popery in that wish. They ca'd them the + Norman Wardours, though they cam frae the south to this country. So this + Sir Richard, that they ca'd Red-hand, drew up wi' the auld Knockwinnock + o' that day—for then they were Knockwinnocks of that Ilk—and wad fain + marry his only daughter, that was to have the castle and the land. Laith, + laith was the lass—(Sybil Knockwinnock they ca'd her that tauld me the + tale)—laith, laith was she to gie into the match, for she had fa'en a + wee ower thick wi' a cousin o' her ain that her father had some ill-will + to; and sae it was, that after she had been married to Sir Richard jimp + four months—for marry him she maun, it's like—ye'll no hinder her + gieing them a present o' a bonny knave bairn. Then there was siccan a + ca'-thro', as the like was never seen; and she's be burnt, and he's be + slain, was the best words o' their mouths. But it was a' sowdered up + again some gait, and the bairn was sent awa, and bred up near the + Highlands, and grew up to be a fine wanle fallow, like mony ane that + comes o' the wrang side o' the blanket; and Sir Richard wi' the Red-hand, + he had a fair offspring o'his ain, and a was lound and quiet till his + head was laid in the ground. But then down came Malcolm Misticot—(Sir + Arthur says it should be <i>Misbegot,</i> but they aye ca'd him Misticot that + spoke o't lang syne)—down cam this Malcolm, the love-begot, frae + Glen-isla, wi' a string o' lang-legged Highlanders at his heels, that's + aye ready for onybody's mischief, and he threeps the castle and lands are + his ain as his mother's eldest son, and turns a' the Wardours out to the + hill. There was a sort of fighting and blude-spilling about it, for the + gentles took different sides; but Malcolm had the uppermost for a lang + time, and keepit the Castle of Knockwinnock, and strengthened it, and + built that muckle tower that they ca' Misticot's tower to this day." +</p> +<p> + "Mine goot friend, old Mr. Edie Ochiltree." interrupted the German, "this + is all as one like de long histories of a baron of sixteen quarters in + mine countries; but I would as rather hear of de silver and gold." +</p> +<p> + "Why, ye see," continued the mendicant, "this Malcolm was weel helped by + an uncle, a brother o' his father's, that was Prior o' St. Ruth here; and + muckle treasure they gathered between them, to secure the succession of + their house in the lands of Knockwinnock. Folk said that the monks in + thae days had the art of multiplying metals—at ony rate, they were very + rich. At last it came to this, that the young Wardour, that was + Red-hand's son, challenged Misticot to fight with him in the lists as + they ca'd them—that's no lists or tailor's runds and selvedges o' + claith, but a palin'-thing they set up for them to fight in like + game-cocks. Aweel, Misticot was beaten, and at his brother's mercy—but + he wadna touch his life, for the blood of Knockwinnock that was in baith + their veins: so Malcolm was compelled to turn a monk, and he died soon + after in the priory, of pure despite and vexation. Naebody ever kenn'd + whare his uncle the prior earded him, or what he did wi' his gowd and + silver, for he stood on the right o' halie kirk, and wad gie nae account + to onybody. But the prophecy gat abroad in the country, that whenever + Misticot's grave was fund out, the estate of Knockwinnock should be lost + and won." +</p> +<p> + "Ach! mine goot old friend, Maister Edie, and dat is not so very + unlikely, if Sir Arthurs will quarrel wit his goot friends to please Mr. + Oldenbuck.—And so you do tink dat dis golds and silvers belonged to goot + Mr. Malcolm Mishdigoat?" +</p> +<p> + "Troth do I, Mr. Dousterdeevil." +</p> +<p> + "And you do believe dat dere is more of dat sorts behind?" +</p> +<p> + "By my certie do I—How can it be otherwise?—<i>Search—No. I</i>—that is as + muckle as to say, search and ye'll find number twa. Besides, yon kist is + only silver, and I aye heard that' Misticot's pose had muckle yellow gowd + in't." +</p> +<p> + "Den, mine goot friends," said the adept, jumping up hastily, "why do we + not set about our little job directly?" +</p> +<p> + "For twa gude reasons," answered the beggar, who quietly kept his sitting + posture;—"first, because, as I said before, we have naething to dig wi', + for they hae taen awa the picks and shules; and, secondly, because there + will be a wheen idle gowks coming to glower at the hole as lang as it is + daylight, and maybe the laird may send somebody to fill it up—and ony + way we wad be catched. But if you will meet me on this place at twal + o'clock wi' a dark lantern, I'll hae tools ready, and we'll gang quietly + about our job our twa sells, and naebody the wiser for't." +</p> +<p> + "Be—be—but, mine goot friend," said Dousterswivel, from whose + recollection his former nocturnal adventure was not to be altogether + erased, even by the splendid hopes which Edie's narrative held forth, "it + is not so goot or so safe, to be about goot Maister Mishdigoat's grabe at + dat time of night—you have forgot how I told you de spirits did hone and + mone dere. I do assure you, dere is disturbance dere." +</p> +<p> + "If ye're afraid of ghaists," answered the mendicant, coolly, "I'll do + the job mysell, and bring your share o' the siller to ony place you like + to appoint." +</p> +<p> + "No—no—mine excellent old Mr. Edie,—too much trouble for you—I will + not have dat—I will come myself—and it will be bettermost; for, mine + old friend, it was I, Herman Dousterswivel, discovered Maister + Mishdigoat's grave when I was looking for a place as to put away some + little trumpery coins, just to play one little trick on my dear friend + Sir Arthur, for a little sport and pleasures. Yes, I did take some what + you call rubbish, and did discover Maister Mishdigoat's own monumentsh— + It's like dat he meant I should be his heirs—so it would not be civility + in me not to come mineself for mine inheritance." +</p> +<p> + "At twal o'clock, then," said the mendicant, "we meet under this tree. + I'll watch for a while, and see that naebody meddles wi' the grave—it's + only saying the laird's forbade it—then get my bit supper frae Ringan + the poinder up by, and leave to sleep in his barn; and I'll slip out at + night, and neer be mist." +</p> +<p> + "Do so, mine goot Maister Edie, and I will meet you here on this very + place, though all de spirits should moan and sneeze deir very brains + out." +</p> +<p> + So saying he shook hands with the old man, and with this mutual pledge of + fidelity to their appointment, they separated for the present. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0004"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER FOURTH. +</h2> +<pre> + —See thou shake the bags + Of hoarding abbots; angels imprisoned + Set thou at liberty— + Bell, book, and candle, shall not drive me back, + If gold and silver beckon to come on. + King John. +</pre> +<p> + The night set in stormy, with wind and occasional showers of rain. "Eh, + sirs," said the old mendicant, as he took his place on the sheltered side + of the large oak-tree to wait for his associate—"Eh, sirs, but human + nature's a wilful and wilyard thing!—Is it not an unco lucre o' gain wad + bring this Dousterdivel out in a blast o' wind like this, at twal o'clock + at night, to thir wild gousty wa's?—and amna I a bigger fule than + himsell to bide here waiting for him?" +</p> +<p> + Having made these sage reflections, he wrapped himself close in his + cloak, and fixed his eye on the moon as she waded amid the stormy and + dusky clouds, which the wind from time to time drove across her surface. + The melancholy and uncertain gleams that she shot from between the + passing shadows fell full upon the rifted arches and shafted windows of + the old building, which were thus for an instant made distinctly visible + in their ruinous state, and anon became again a dark, undistinguished, + and shadowy mass. The little lake had its share of these transient beams + of light, and showed its waters broken, whitened, and agitated under the + passing storm, which, when the clouds swept over the moon, were only + distinguished by their sullen and murmuring plash against the beach. The + wooded glen repeated, to every successive gust that hurried through its + narrow trough, the deep and various groan with which the trees replied to + the whirlwind, and the sound sunk again, as the blast passed away, into a + faint and passing murmur, resembling the sighs of an exhausted criminal + after the first pangs of his torture are over. In these sounds, + superstition might have found ample gratification for that State of + excited terror which she fears and yet loves. But such feeling is made no + part of Ochiltree's composition. His mind wandered back to the scenes of + his youth. +</p> +<p> + "I have kept guard on the outposts baith in Germany and America," he said + to himself, "in mony a waur night than this, and when I ken'd there was + maybe a dozen o' their riflemen in the thicket before me. But I was aye + gleg at my duty—naebody ever catched Edie sleeping." +</p> +<p> + As he muttered thus to himself, he instinctively shouldered his trusty + pike-staff, assumed the port of a sentinel on duty, and, as a step + advanced towards the tree, called, with a tone assorting better with his + military reminiscences than his present state—"Stand! who goes there?" +</p> +<p> + "De devil, goot Edie," answered Dousterswivel, "why does you speak so + loud as a baarenhauter, or what you call a factionary—I mean a + sentinel?" +</p> +<p> + "Just because I thought I was a sentinel at that moment," answered the + mendicant. "Here's an awsome night! Hae ye brought the lantern and a pock + for the siller?" +</p> +<p> + "Ay-ay, mine goot friend," said the German, "here it is—my pair of what + you call saddlebag; one side will be for you, one side for me;—I will + put dem on my horse to save you de trouble, as you are old man." +</p> +<p> + "Have you a horse here, then?" asked Edie Ochiltree. +</p> +<p> + "O yes, mine friend—tied yonder by de stile," responded the adept. +</p> +<p> + "Weel, I hae just ae word to the bargain—there sall nane o' my gear gang + on your beast's back." +</p> +<p> + "What was it as you would be afraid of?" said the foreigner. +</p> +<p> + "Only of losing sight of horse, man, and money," again replied the + gaberlunzie. +</p> +<p> + "Does you know dat you make one gentlemans out to be one great rogue?" +</p> +<p> + "Mony gentlemen," replied Ochiltree, "can make that out for themselves— + But what's the sense of quarrelling?—If ye want to gang on, gang on—if + no—I'll gae back to the gude ait-straw in Ringan Aikwood's barn that I + left wi' right ill-will e'now, and I'll pit back the pick and shule whar + I got them." +</p> +<p> + Dousterswivel deliberated a moment, whether, by suffering Edie to depart, + he might not secure the whole of the expected wealth for his own + exclusive use. But the want of digging implements, the uncertainty + whether, if he had them, he could clear out the grave to a sufficient + depth without assistance, and, above all, the reluctance which he felt, + owing to the experience of the former night, to venture alone on the + terrors of Misticot's grave, satisfied him the attempt would be + hazardous. Endeavouring, therefore, to assume his usual cajoling tone, + though internally incensed, he begged "his goot friend Maister Edie + Ochiltrees would lead the way, and assured him of his acquiescence in all + such an excellent friend could propose." +</p> +<p> + "Aweel, aweel, then," said Edie, "tak gude care o' your feet amang the + lang grass and the loose stones. I wish we may get the light keepit in + neist, wi' this fearsome wind—but there's a blink o' moonlight at + times." +</p> +<p> + Thus saying, old Edie, closely accompanied by the adept, led the way + towards the ruins, but presently made a full halt in front of them. +</p> +<p> + "Ye're a learned man, Mr. Dousterdeevil, and ken muckle o' the marvellous + works o' nature—Now, will ye tell me ae thing?—D'ye believe in ghaists + and spirits that walk the earth?—d'ye believe in them, ay or no?" +</p> +<p> + "Now, goot Mr. Edie," whispered Dousterswivel, in an expostulatory tone + of voice, "is this a times or a places for such a questions?" +</p> +<p> + "Indeed is it, baith the tane and the t'other, Mr. Dustanshovel; for I + maun fairly tell ye, there's reports that auld Misticot walks. Now this + wad be an uncanny night to meet him in, and wha kens if he wad be ower + weel pleased wi' our purpose of visiting his pose?" +</p> +<p> + "<i>Alle guten Geister</i>"—muttered the adept, the rest of the conjuration + being lost in a tremulous warble of his voice,—"I do desires you not to + speak so, Mr. Edie; for, from all I heard dat one other night, I do much + believes"— +</p> +<p> + "Now I," said Ochiltree, entering the chancel, and flinging abroad his + arm with an air of defiance, "I wadna gie the crack o' my thumb for him + were he to appear at this moment: he's but a disembodied spirit, as we + are embodied anes." +</p> +<p> + "For the lofe of heavens," said Dousterswivel, "say nothing at all + neither about somebodies or nobodies!" +</p> +<p> + "Aweel," said the beggar (expanding the shade of the lantern), "here's + the stane, and, spirit or no spirit, I'se be a wee bit deeper in the + grave;" and he jumped into the place from which the precious chest had + that morning been removed. After striking a few strokes, he tired, or + affected to tire, and said to his companion, "I'm auld and failed now, + and canna keep at it—time about's fair play, neighbour; ye maun get in + and tak the shule a bit, and shule out the loose earth, and then I'll tak + turn about wi' you." +</p> +<p> + Dousterswivel accordingly took the place which the beggar had evacuated, + and toiled with all the zeal that awakened avarice, mingled with the + anxious wish to finish the undertaking and leave the place as soon as + possible, could inspire in a mind at once greedy, suspicious, and + timorous. +</p> +<p> + Edie, standing much at his ease by the side of the hole, contented + himself with exhorting his associate to labour hard. "My certie! few ever + wrought for siccan a day's wage; an it be but—say the tenth part o' the + size o' the kist, No. I., it will double its value, being filled wi' gowd + instead of silver. Od, ye work as if ye had been bred to pick and shule— + ye could win your round half-crown ilka day. Tak care o' your taes wi' + that stane!" giving a kick to a large one which the adept had heaved out + with difficulty, and which Edie pushed back again to the great annoyance + of his associate's shins. +</p> +<p> + Thus exhorted by the mendicant, Dousterswivel struggled and laboured + among the stones and stiff clay, toiling like a horse, and internally + blaspheming in German. When such an unhallowed syllable escaped his lips, + Edie changed his battery upon him. +</p> +<p> + "O dinna swear! dinna swear! Wha kens whals listening!—Eh! gude guide + us, what's yon!—Hout, it's just a branch of ivy flightering awa frae the + wa'; when the moon was in, it lookit unco like a dead man's arm wi' a + taper in't—I thought it was Misticot himsell. But never mind, work you + away—fling the earth weel up by out o' the gate—Od, if ye're no as + clean a worker at a grave as Win Winnet himsell! What gars ye stop now?— + ye're just at the very bit for a chance." +</p> +<p> + "Stop!" said the German, in a tone of anger and disappointment, "why, I + am down at de rocks dat de cursed ruins (God forgife me!) is founded + upon." +</p> +<p> + "Weel," said the beggar, "that's the likeliest bit of ony. It will be but + a muckle through-stane laid doun to kiver the gowd—tak the pick till't, + and pit mair strength, man—ae gude down-right devvel will split it, I'se + warrant ye—Ay, that will do Od, he comes on wi' Wallace's straiks!" +</p> +<p> + In fact, the adept, moved by Edie's exhortations, fetched two or three + desperate blows, and succeeded in breaking, not indeed that against which + he struck, which, as he had already conjectured, was the solid rock, but + the implement which he wielded, jarring at the same time his arms up to + the shoulder-blades. +</p> +<p> + "Hurra, boys!—there goes Ringan's pick-axe!" cried Edie "it's a shame o' + the Fairport folk to sell siccan frail gear. Try the shule—at it again, + Mr. Dusterdeevil." +</p> +<p> + The adept, without reply, scrambled out of the pit, which was now about + six feet deep, and addressed his associate in a voice that trembled with + anger. "Does you know, Mr. Edies Ochiltrees, who it is you put off your + gibes and your jests upon?" +</p> +<p> + "Brawly, Mr. Dusterdeevil—brawly do I ken ye, and has done mony a day; + but there's nae jesting in the case, for I am wearying to see ae our + treasures; we should hae had baith ends o' the pockmanky filled by this + time—I hope it's bowk eneugh to haud a' the gear?" +</p> +<p> + "Look you, you base old person," said the incensed philosopher, "if you + do put another jest upon me, I will cleave your skull-piece with this + shovels!" +</p> +<p> + "And whare wad my hands and my pike-staff be a' the time?" replied Edie, + in a tone that indicated no apprehension. "Hout, tout, Maister + Dusterdeevil, I haena lived sae lang in the warld neither, to be shuled + out o't that gate. What ails ye to be cankered, man, wi' your friends? + I'll wager I'll find out the treasure in a minute;" and he jumped into + the pit, and took up the spade. +</p> +<p> + "I do swear to you," said the adept, whose suspicions were now fully + awake, "that if you have played me one big trick, I will give you one big + beating, Mr. Edies." +</p> +<p> + "Hear till him now!" said Ochiltree, "he kens how to gar folk find out + the gear—Od, I'm thinking he's been drilled that way himsell some day." +</p> +<p> + At this insinuation, which alluded obviously to the former scene betwixt + himself and Sir Arthur, the philosopher lost the slender remnant of + patience he had left, and being of violent passions, heaved up the + truncheon of the broken mattock to discharge it upon the old man's head. + The blow would in all probability have been fatal, had not he at whom it + was aimed exclaimed in a stern and firm voice, "Shame to ye, man!—do ye + think Heaven or earth will suffer ye to murder an auld man that might be + your father?—Look behind ye, man!" +</p> +<p> + Dousterswivel turned instinctively, and beheld, to his utter + astonishment, a tall dark figure standing close behind him. The + apparition gave him no time to proceed by exorcism or otherwise, but + having instantly recourse to the <i>voie de fait,</i> took measure of the + adept's shoulders three or four times with blows so substantial, that he + fell under the weight of them, and remained senseless for some minutes + between fear and stupefaction. When he came to himself, he was alone in + the ruined chancel, lying upon the soft and damp earth which had been + thrown out of Misticot's grave. He raised himself with a confused + sensation of anger, pain, and terror, and it was not until he had sat + upright for some minutes, that he could arrange his ideas sufficiently to + recollect how he came there, or with what purpose. As his recollection + returned, he could have little doubt that the bait held out to him by + Ochiltree, to bring him to that solitary spot, the sarcasms by which he + had provoked him into a quarrel, and the ready assistance which he had at + hand for terminating it in the manner in which it had ended, were all + parts of a concerted plan to bring disgrace and damage on Herman + Dousterswivel. He could hardly suppose that he was indebted for the + fatigue, anxiety, and beating which he had undergone, purely to the + malice of Edie Ochiltree singly, but concluded that the mendicant had + acted a part assigned to him by some person of greater importance. His + suspicions hesitated between Oldbuck and Sir Arthur Wardour. The former + had been at no pains to conceal a marked dislike of him—but the latter + he had deeply injured; and although he judged that Sir Arthur did not + know the extent of his wrongs towards him, yet it was easy to suppose he + had gathered enough of the truth to make him desirous of revenge. + Ochiltree had alluded to at least one circumstance which the adept had + every reason to suppose was private between Sir Arthur and himself, and + therefore must have been learned from the former. The language of Oldbuck + also intimated a conviction of his knavery, which Sir Arthur heard + without making any animated defence. Lastly, the way in which + Dousterswivel supposed the Baronet to have exercised his revenge, was not + inconsistent with the practice of other countries with which the adept + was better acquainted than with those of North Britain. With him, as with + many bad men, to suspect an injury, and to nourish the purpose of + revenge, was one and the same movement. And before Dousterswivel had + fairly recovered his legs, he had mentally sworn the ruin of his + benefactor, which, unfortunately, he possessed too much the power of + accelerating. +</p> +<p> + But although a purpose of revenge floated through his brain, it was no + time to indulge such speculations. The hour, the place, his own + situation, and perhaps the presence or near neighbourhood of his + assailants, made self-preservation the adept's first object. The lantern + had been thrown down and extinguished in the scuffle. The wind, which + formerly howled so loudly through the aisles of the ruin, had now greatly + fallen, lulled by the rain, which was descending very fast. The moon, + from the same cause, was totally obscured, and though Dousterswivel had + some experience of the ruins, and knew that he must endeavour to regain + the eastern door of the chancel, yet the confusion of his ideas was such, + that he hesitated for some time ere he could ascertain in what direction + he was to seek it. In this perplexity, the suggestions of superstition, + taking the advantage of darkness and his evil conscience, began again to + present themselves to his disturbed imagination. "But bah!" quoth he + valiantly to himself, "it is all nonsense all one part of de damn big + trick and imposture. Devil! that one thick-skulled Scotch Baronet, as I + have led by the nose for five year, should cheat Herman Dousterswivel!" +</p> +<p> + As he had come to this conclusion, an incident occurred which tended + greatly to shake the grounds on which he had adopted it. Amid the + melancholy <i>sough</i> of the dying wind, and the plash of the rain-drops on + leaves and stones, arose, and apparently at no great distance from the + listener, a strain of vocal music so sad and solemn, as if the departed + spirits of the churchmen who had once inhabited these deserted ruins were + mourning the solitude and desolation to which their hallowed precincts + had been abandoned. Dousterswivel, who had now got upon his feet, and was + groping around the wall of the chancel, stood rooted to the ground on the + occurrence of this new phenomenon. Each faculty of his soul seemed for + the moment concentred in the sense of hearing, and all rushed back with + the unanimous information, that the deep, wild, and prolonged chant which + he now heard, was the appropriate music of one of the most solemn dirges + of the Church of Rome. Why performed in such a solitude, and by what + class of choristers, were questions which the terrified imagination of + the adept, stirred with all the German superstitions of nixies, + oak-kings, wer-wolves, hobgoblins, black spirits and white, blue spirits + and grey, durst not even attempt to solve. +</p> +<p> + Another of his senses was soon engaged in the investigation. At the + extremity of one of the transepts of the church, at the bottom of a few + descending steps, was a small iron-grated door, opening, as far as he + recollected, to a sort of low vault or sacristy. As he cast his eye in + the direction of the sound, he observed a strong reflection of red light + glimmering through these bars, and against the steps which descended to + them. Dousterswivel stood a moment uncertain what to do; then, suddenly + forming a desperate resolution, he moved down the aisle to the place from + which the light proceeded. +</p> +<a name="image-0005"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/pb052.jpg" height="808" width="547" +alt="The Funeral of the Countess +"> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<p> + Fortified with the sign of the cross, and as many exorcisms as his memory + could recover, he advanced to the grate, from which, unseen, he could see + what passed in the interior of the vault. As he approached with timid and + uncertain steps, the chant, after one or two wild and prolonged cadences, + died away into profound silence. The grate, when he reached it, presented + a singular spectacle in the interior of the sacristy. An open grave, with + four tall flambeaus, each about six feet high, placed at the four + corners—a bier, having a corpse in its shroud, the arms folded upon the + breast, rested upon tressels at one side of the grave, as if ready to be + interred—a priest, dressed in his cope and stole, held open the service + book—another churchman in his vestments bore a holy-water sprinkler, and + two boys in white surplices held censers with incense—a man, of a figure + once tall and commanding, but now bent with age or infirmity, stood alone + and nearest to the coffin, attired in deep mourning—such were the most + prominent figures of the group. At a little distance were two or three + persons of both sexes, attired in long mourning hoods and cloaks; and + five or six others in the same lugubrious dress, still farther removed + from the body, around the walls of the vault, stood ranged in motionless + order, each bearing in his hand a huge torch of black wax. The smoky + light from so many flambeaus, by the red and indistinct atmosphere which + it spread around, gave a hazy, dubious, and as it were phantom-like + appearance to the outlines of this singular apparition, The voice of the + priest—loud, clear, and sonorous—now recited, from the breviary which + he held in his hand, those solemn words which the ritual of the Catholic + church has consecrated to the rendering of dust to dust. Meanwhile, + Dousterswivel, the place, the hour, and the surprise considered, still + remained uncertain whether what he saw was substantial, or an unearthly + representation of the rites to which in former times these walls were + familiar, but which are now rarely practised in Protestant countries, and + almost never in Scotland. He was uncertain whether to abide the + conclusion of the ceremony, or to endeavour to regain the chancel, when a + change in his position made him visible through the grate to one of the + attendant mourners. The person who first espied him indicated his + discovery to the individual who stood apart and nearest the coffin, by a + sign, and upon his making a sign in reply, two of the group detached + themselves, and, gliding along with noiseless steps, as if fearing to + disturb the service, unlocked and opened the grate which separated them + from the adept. Each took him by an arm, and exerting a degree of force, + which he would have been incapable of resisting had his fear permitted + him to attempt opposition, they placed him on the ground in the chancel, + and sat down, one on each side of him, as if to detain him. Satisfied he + was in the power of mortals like himself, the adept would have put some + questions to them; but while one pointed to the vault, from which the + sound of the priest's voice was distinctly heard, the other placed his + finger upon his lips in token of silence, a hint which the German thought + it most prudent to obey. And thus they detained him until a loud + Alleluia, pealing through the deserted arches of St. Ruth, closed the + singular ceremony which it had been his fortune to witness. +</p> +<p> + When the hymn had died away with all its echoes, the voice of one of the + sable personages under whose guard the adept had remained, said, in a + familiar tone and dialect, "Dear sirs, Mr. Dousterswivel, is this you? + could not ye have let us ken an ye had wussed till hae been present at + the ceremony?—My lord couldna tak it weel your coming blinking and + jinking in, in that fashion." +</p> +<p> + "In de name of all dat is gootness, tell me what you are?" interrupted + the German in his turn. +</p> +<p> + "What I am? why, wha should I be but Ringan Aikwood, the Knockwinnock + poinder?—and what are ye doing here at this time o' night, unless ye + were come to attend the leddy's burial?" +</p> +<p> + "I do declare to you, mine goot Poinder Aikwood," said the German, + raising himself up, "that I have been this vary nights murdered, robbed, + and put in fears of my life." +</p> +<p> + "Robbed! wha wad do sic a deed here?—Murdered! od ye speak pretty blithe + for a murdered man—Put in fear! what put you in fear, Mr. + Dousterswivel?" +</p> +<p> + "I will tell you, Maister Poinder Aikwood Ringan, just dat old miscreant + dog villain blue-gown, as you call Edie Ochiltrees." +</p> +<p> + "I'll neer believe that," answered Ringan;—"Edie was ken'd to me, and my + father before me, for a true, loyal, and sooth-fast man; and, mair by + token, he's sleeping up yonder in our barn, and has been since ten at + e'en—Sae touch ye wha liket, Mr. Dousterswivel, and whether onybody + touched ye or no, I'm sure Edie's sackless." +</p> +<p> + "Maister Ringan Aikwood Poinders, I do not know what you call sackless,— + but let alone all de oils and de soot dat you say he has, and I will tell + you I was dis night robbed of fifty pounds by your oil and sooty friend, + Edies Ochiltree; and he is no more in your barn even now dan I ever shall + be in de kingdom of heafen." +</p> +<p> + "Weel, sir, if ye will gae up wi' me, as the burial company has + dispersed, we'se mak ye down a bed at the lodge, and we'se see if Edie's + at the barn. There was twa wild-looking chaps left the auld kirk when we + were coming up wi' the corpse, that's certain; and the priest, wha likes + ill that ony heretics should look on at our church ceremonies, sent twa + o' the riding saulies after them; sae we'll hear a' about it frae them." +</p> +<p> + Thus speaking, the kindly apparition, with the assistance of the mute + personage, who was his son, disencumbered himself of his cloak, and + prepared to escort Dousterswivel to the place of that rest which the + adept so much needed. +</p> +<p> + "I will apply to the magistrates to-morrow," said the adept; "oder, I + will have de law put in force against all the peoples." +</p> +<p> + While he thus muttered vengeance against the cause of his injury, he + tottered from among the ruins, supporting himself on Ringan and his son, + whose assistance his state of weakness rendered very necessary. +</p> +<p> + When they were clear of the priory, and had gained the little meadow in + which it stands, Dousterswivel could perceive the torches which had + caused him so much alarm issuing in irregular procession from the ruins, + and glancing their light, like that of the <i>ignis fatuus,</i> on the banks + of the lake. After moving along the path for some short space with a + fluctuating and irregular motion, the lights were at once extinguished. +</p> +<p> + "We aye put out the torches at the Halie-cross Well on sic occasions," + said the forester to his guest. And accordingly no farther visible sign + of the procession offered itself to Dousterswivel, although his ear could + catch the distant and decreasing echo of horses' hoofs in the direction + towards which the mourners had bent their course. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0005"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER FIFTH. +</h2> +<pre> + O weel may the boatie row + And better may she speed, + And weel may the boatie row + That earns the bairnies' bread! + The boatie rows, the boatie rows, + The boatie rows fu' weel, + And lightsome be their life that bear + The merlin and the creel! + Old Ballad. +</pre> +<p> + We must now introduce our reader to the interior of the fisher's cottage + mentioned in CHAPTER eleventh of this edifying history. I wish I could + say that its inside was well arranged, decently furnished, or tolerably + clean. On the contrary, I am compelled to admit, there was confusion,— + there was dilapidation,—there was dirt good store. Yet, with all this, + there was about the inmates, Luckie Mucklebackit and her family, an + appearance of ease, plenty, and comfort, that seemed to warrant their old + sluttish proverb, "The clartier the cosier." A huge fire, though the + season was summer, occupied the hearth, and served at once for affording + light, heat, and the means of preparing food. The fishing had been + successful, and the family, with customary improvidence, had, since + unlading the cargo, continued an unremitting operation of broiling and + frying that part of the produce reserved for home consumption, and the + bones and fragments lay on the wooden trenchers, mingled with morsels of + broken bannocks and shattered mugs of half-drunk beer. The stout and + athletic form of Maggie herself, bustling here and there among a pack of + half-grown girls and younger children, of whom she chucked one now here + and another now there, with an exclamation of "Get out o' the gate, ye + little sorrow!" was strongly contrasted with the passive and + half-stupified look and manner of her husband's mother, a woman advanced + to the last stage of human life, who was seated in her wonted chair close + by the fire, the warmth of which she coveted, yet hardly seemed to be + sensible of—now muttering to herself, now smiling vacantly to the + children as they pulled the strings of her <i>toy</i> or close cap, or + twitched her blue checked apron. With her distaff in her bosom, and her + spindle in her hand, she plied lazily and mechanically the old-fashioned + Scottish thrift, according to the old-fashioned Scottish manner. The + younger children, crawling among the feet of the elder, watched the + progress of grannies spindle as it twisted, and now and then ventured to + interrupt its progress as it danced upon the floor in those vagaries + which the more regulated spinning-wheel has now so universally + superseded, that even the fated Princess in the fairy tale might roam + through all Scotland without the risk of piercing her hand with a + spindle, and dying of the wound. Late as the hour was (and it was long + past midnight), the whole family were still on foot, and far from + proposing to go to bed; the dame was still busy broiling car-cakes on the + girdle, and the elder girl, the half-naked mermaid elsewhere + commemorated, was preparing a pile of Findhorn haddocks (that is, + haddocks smoked with green wood), to be eaten along with these relishing + provisions. +</p> +<p> + While they were thus employed, a slight tap at the door, accompanied with + the question, "Are ye up yet, sirs?" announced a visitor. The answer, + "Ay, ay,—come your ways ben, hinny," occasioned the lifting of the + latch, and Jenny Rintherout, the female domestic of our Antiquary, made + her appearance. +</p> +<p> + "Ay, ay," exclaimed the mistress of the family—"Hegh, sirs! can this be + you, Jenny?—a sight o' you's gude for sair een, lass." +</p> +<p> + "O woman, we've been sae ta'en up wi' Captain Hector's wound up by, that + I havena had my fit out ower the door this fortnight; but he's better + now, and auld Caxon sleeps in his room in case he wanted onything. Sae, + as soon as our auld folk gaed to bed, I e'en snodded my head up a bit, + and left the house-door on the latch, in case onybody should be wanting + in or out while I was awa, and just cam down the gate to see an there was + ony cracks amang ye." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, ay," answered Luckie Mucklebackit, "I see you hae gotten a' your + braws on; ye're looking about for Steenie now—but he's no at hame the + night; and ye'll no do for Steenie, lass—a feckless thing like you's no + fit to mainteen a man." +</p> +<p> + "Steenie will no do for me," retorted Jenny, with a toss of her head that + might have become a higher-born damsel; "I maun hae a man that can + mainteen his wife." +</p> +<p> + "Ou ay, hinny—thae's your landward and burrows-town notions. + My certie!—fisherwives ken better—they keep the man, and keep the house, and keep + the siller too, lass." +</p> +<p> + "A wheen poor drudges ye are," answered the nymph of the land to the + nymph of the sea. "As sune as the keel o' the coble touches the sand, + deil a bit mair will the lazy fisher loons work, but the wives maun kilt + their coats, and wade into the surf to tak the fish ashore. And then the + man casts aff the wat and puts on the dry, and sits down wi' his pipe and + his gill-stoup ahint the ingle, like ony auld houdie, and neer a turn + will he do till the coble's afloat again! And the wife she maun get the + scull on her back, and awa wi' the fish to the next burrows-town, and + scauld and ban wi'ilka wife that will scauld and ban wi'her till it's + sauld—and that's the gait fisher-wives live, puir slaving bodies." +</p> +<p> + "Slaves?—gae wa', lass!—ca' the head o' the house slaves? little ye ken + about it, lass. Show me a word my Saunders daur speak, or a turn he daur + do about the house, without it be just to tak his meat, and his drink, + and his diversion, like ony o' the weans. He has mair sense than to ca' + anything about the bigging his ain, frae the rooftree down to a crackit + trencher on the bink. He kens weel eneugh wha feeds him, and cleeds him, + and keeps a' tight, thack and rape, when his coble is jowing awa in the + Firth, puir fallow. Na, na, lass!—them that sell the goods guide the + purse—them that guide the purse rule the house. Show me ane o' yer bits + o' farmer-bodies that wad let their wife drive the stock to the market, + and ca' in the debts. Na, na." +</p> +<p> + "Aweel, aweel, Maggie, ilka land has its ain lauch—But where's Steenie + the night, when a's come and gane? And where's the gudeman?"* +</p> +<p> + * Note G. Gynecocracy. +</p> +<p> + "I hae putten the gudeman to his bed, for he was e'en sair forfain; and + Steenie's awa out about some barns-breaking wi' the auld gaberlunzie, + Edie Ochiltree: they'll be in sune, and ye can sit doun." +</p> +<p> + "Troth, gudewife" (taking a seat), "I haena that muckle time to stop—but + I maun tell ye about the news. Yell hae heard o' the muckle kist o' gowd + that Sir Arthur has fund down by at St. Ruth?—He'll be grander than ever + now—he'll no can haud down his head to sneeze, for fear o' seeing his + shoon." +</p> +<p> + "Ou ay—a' the country's heard o' that; but auld Edie says that they ca' + it ten times mair than ever was o't, and he saw them howk it up. Od, it + would be lang or a puir body that needed it got sic a windfa'." +</p> +<p> + "Na, that's sure eneugh.—And yell hae heard o' the Countess o' Glenallan + being dead and lying in state, and how she's to be buried at St. Ruth's + as this night fa's, wi' torch-light; and a' the popist servants, and + Ringan Aikwood, that's a papist too, are to be there, and it will be the + grandest show ever was seen." +</p> +<p> + "Troth, hinny," answered the Nereid, "if they let naebody but papists + come there, it'll no be muckle o' a show in this country, for the auld + harlot, as honest Mr. Blattergowl ca's her, has few that drink o' her cup + o' enchantments in this corner o' our chosen lands.—But what can ail + them to bury the auld carlin (a rudas wife she was) in the night-time?—I + dare say our gudemither will ken." +</p> +<p> + Here she exalted her voice, and exclaimed twice or thrice, "Gudemither! + gudemither!" but, lost in the apathy of age and deafness, the aged sibyl + she addressed continued plying her spindle without understanding the + appeal made to her. +</p> +<p> + "Speak to your grandmither, Jenny—Od, I wad rather hail the coble half a + mile aff, and the nor-wast wind whistling again in my teeth." +</p> +<p> + "Grannie," said the little mermaid, in a voice to which the old woman was + better accustomed, "minnie wants to ken what for the Glenallan folk aye + bury by candle-light in the ruing of St. Ruth!" +</p> +<p> + The old woman paused in the act of twirling the spindle, turned round to + the rest of the party, lifted her withered, trembling, and clay-coloured + hand, raised up her ashen-hued and wrinkled face, which the quick motion + of two light-blue eyes chiefly distinguished from the visage of a corpse, + and, as if catching at any touch of association with the living world, + answered, "What gars the Glenallan family inter their dead by torchlight, + said the lassie?—Is there a Glenallan dead e'en now?" +</p> +<p> + "We might be a' dead and buried too," said Maggie, "for onything ye wad + ken about it;"—and then, raising her voice to the stretch of her + mother-in-law's comprehension, she added, +</p> +<p> + "It's the auld Countess, gudemither." +</p> +<p> + "And is she ca'd hame then at last?" said the old woman, in a voice that + seemed to be agitated with much more feeling than belonged to her extreme + old age, and the general indifference and apathy of her manner—"is she + then called to her last account after her lang race o' pride and power?— + O God, forgie her!" +</p> +<p> + "But minnie was asking ye," resumed the lesser querist, "what for the + Glenallan family aye bury their dead by torch-light?" +</p> +<p> + "They hae aye dune sae," said the grandmother, "since the time the Great + Earl fell in the sair battle o' the Harlaw, when they say the coronach + was cried in ae day from the mouth of the Tay to the Buck of the Cabrach, + that ye wad hae heard nae other sound but that of lamentation for the + great folks that had fa'en fighting against Donald of the Isles. But the + Great Earl's mither was living—they were a doughty and a dour race, the + women o' the house o' Glenallan—and she wad hae nae coronach cried for + her son, but had him laid in the silence o' midnight in his place o' + rest, without either drinking the dirge, or crying the lament. She said + he had killed enow that day he died, for the widows and daughters o' the + Highlanders he had slain to cry the coronach for them they had lost, and + for her son too; and sae she laid him in his gave wi' dry eyes, and + without a groan or a wail. And it was thought a proud word o' the family, + and they aye stickit by it—and the mair in the latter times, because in + the night-time they had mair freedom to perform their popish ceremonies + by darkness and in secrecy than in the daylight—at least that was the + case in my time; they wad hae been disturbed in the day-time baith by the + law and the commons of Fairport—they may be owerlooked now, as I have + heard: the warlds changed—I whiles hardly ken whether I am standing or + sitting, or dead or living." +</p> +<p> + And looking round the fire, as if in a state of unconscious uncertainty + of which she complained, old Elspeth relapsed into her habitual and + mechanical occupation of twirling the spindle. +</p> +<p> + "Eh, sirs!" said Jenny Rintherout, under her breath to her gossip, "it's + awsome to hear your gudemither break out in that gait—it's like the dead + speaking to the living." +</p> +<p> + "Ye're no that far wrang, lass; she minds naething o' what passes the + day—but set her on auld tales, and she can speak like a prent buke. She + kens mair about the Glenallan family than maist folk—the gudeman's + father was their fisher mony a day. Ye maun ken the papists make a great + point o' eating fish—it's nae bad part o' their religion that, whatever + the rest is—I could aye sell the best o' fish at the best o' prices for + the Countess's ain table, grace be wi' her! especially on a Friday—But + see as our gudemither's hands and lips are ganging—now it's working in + her head like barm—she'll speak eneugh the night. Whiles she'll no speak + a word in a week, unless it be to the bits o' bairns." +</p> +<p> + "Hegh, Mrs. Mucklebackit, she's an awsome wife!" said Jenny in reply. + "D'ye think she's a'thegither right? Folk say she downa gang to the kirk, + or speak to the minister, and that she was ance a papist but since her + gudeman's been dead, naebody kens what she is. D'ye think yoursell that + she's no uncanny?" +</p> +<p> + "Canny, ye silly tawpie! think ye ae auld wife's less canny than anither? + unless it be Alison Breck—I really couldna in conscience swear for her; + I have kent the boxes she set fill'd wi' partans, when"— +</p> +<p> + "Whisht, whisht, Maggie," whispered Jenny—"your gudemither's gaun to + speak again." +</p> +<p> + "Wasna there some ane o' ye said," asked the old sibyl, "or did I dream, + or was it revealed to me, that Joscelind, Lady Glenallan, is dead, an' + buried this night?" +</p> +<p> + "Yes, gudemither," screamed the daughter-in-law, "it's e'en sae." +</p> +<p> + "And e'en sae let it be," said old Elspeth; "she's made mony a sair heart + in her day—ay, e'en her ain son's—is he living yet?" +</p> +<p> + "Ay, he's living yet; but how lang he'll live—however, dinna ye mind his + coming and asking after you in the spring, and leaving siller?" +</p> +<p> + "It may be sae, Magge—I dinna mind it—but a handsome gentleman he was, + and his father before him. Eh! if his father had lived, they might hae + been happy folk! But he was gane, and the lady carried it in—ower and + out-ower wi' her son, and garr'd him trow the thing he never suld hae + trowed, and do the thing he has repented a' his life, and will repent + still, were his life as lang as this lang and wearisome ane o' mine." +</p> +<p> + "O what was it, grannie?"—and "What was it, gudemither?"—and "What was + it, Luckie Elspeth?" asked the children, the mother, and the visitor, in + one breath. +</p> +<p> + "Never ask what it was," answered the old sibyl, "but pray to God that ye + arena left to the pride and wilfu'ness o' your ain hearts: they may be as + powerful in a cabin as in a castle—I can bear a sad witness to that. O + that weary and fearfu' night! will it never gang out o' my auld head!— + Eh! to see her lying on the floor wi' her lang hair dreeping wi' the salt + water!—Heaven will avenge on a' that had to do wi't. Sirs! is my son out + wi' the coble this windy e'en?" +</p> +<p> + "Na, na, mither—nae coble can keep the sea this wind; he's sleeping in + his bed out-ower yonder ahint the hallan." +</p> +<p> + "Is Steenie out at sea then?" +</p> +<p> + "Na, grannie—Steenie's awa out wi' auld Edie Ochiltree, the gaberlunzie; + maybe they'll be gaun to see the burial." +</p> +<p> + "That canna be," said the mother of the family; "we kent naething o't + till Jock Rand cam in, and tauld us the Aikwoods had warning to attend— + they keep thae things unco private—and they were to bring the corpse a' + the way frae the Castle, ten miles off, under cloud o' night. She has + lain in state this ten days at Glenallan House, in a grand chamber a' + hung wi' black, and lighted wi' wax cannle." +</p> +<p> + "God assoilzie her!" ejaculated old Elspeth, her head apparently still + occupied by the event of the Countess's death; "she was a hard-hearted + woman, but she's gaen to account for it a', and His mercy is infinite— + God grant she may find it sae!" And she relapsed into silence, which she + did not break again during the rest of the evening. +</p> +<p> + "I wonder what that auld daft beggar carle and our son Steenie can be + doing out in sic a nicht as this," said Maggie Mucklebackit; and her + expression of surprise was echoed by her visitor. "Gang awa, ane o' ye, + hinnies, up to the heugh head, and gie them a cry in case they're within + hearing; the car-cakes will be burnt to a cinder." +</p> +<p> + The little emissary departed, but in a few minutes came running back with + the loud exclamation, "Eh, Minnie! eh, grannie! there's a white bogle + chasing twa black anes down the heugh." +</p> +<p> + A noise of footsteps followed this singular annunciation, and young + Steenie Mucklebackit, closely followed by Edie Ochiltree, bounced into + the hut. They were panting and out of breath. The first thing Steenie did + was to look for the bar of the door, which his mother reminded him had + been broken up for fire-wood in the hard winter three years ago; "for + what use," she said, "had the like o' them for bars?" +</p> +<p> + "There's naebody chasing us," said the beggar, after he had taken his + breath: "we're e'en like the wicked, that flee when no one pursueth." +</p> +<p> + "Troth, but we were chased," said Steenie, "by a spirit or something + little better." +</p> +<p> + "It was a man in white on horseback," said Edie, "for the soft grund that + wadna bear the beast, flung him about, I wot that weel; but I didna think + my auld legs could have brought me aff as fast; I ran amaist as fast as + if I had been at Prestonpans."* +</p> +<p> + * [This refers to the flight of the government forces at the battle of + Prestonpans, 1745.] +</p> +<p> + "Hout, ye daft gowks!" said Luckie Mucklebackit, "it will hae been some + o' the riders at the Countess's burial." +</p> +<p> + "What!" said Edie, "is the auld Countess buried the night at St. Ruth's? + Ou, that wad be the lights and the noise that scarr'd us awa; I wish I + had ken'd—I wad hae stude them, and no left the man yonder—but they'll + take care o' him. Ye strike ower hard, Steenie I doubt ye foundered the + chield." +</p> +<p> + "Neer a bit," said Steenie, laughing; "he has braw broad shouthers, and I + just took measure o' them wi' the stang. Od, if I hadna been something + short wi' him, he wad hae knockit your auld hams out, lad." +</p> +<p> + "Weel, an I win clear o' this scrape," said Edie, "I'se tempt Providence + nae mair. But I canna think it an unlawfu' thing to pit a bit trick on + sic a landlouping scoundrel, that just lives by tricking honester folk." +</p> +<p> + "But what are we to do with this?" said Steenie, producing a pocket-book. +</p> +<p> + "Od guide us, man," said Edie in great alarm, "what garr'd ye touch the + gear? a very leaf o' that pocket-book wad be eneugh to hang us baith." +</p> +<p> + "I dinna ken," said Steenie; "the book had fa'en out o' his pocket, I + fancy, for I fand it amang my feet when I was graping about to set him on + his logs again, and I just pat it in my pouch to keep it safe; and then + came the tramp of horse, and you cried, Rin, rin,' and I had nae mair + thought o' the book." +</p> +<p> + "We maun get it back to the loon some gait or other; ye had better take + it yoursell, I think, wi' peep o' light, up to Ringan Aikwood's. I wadna + for a hundred pounds it was fund in our hands." +</p> +<p> + Steenie undertook to do as he was directed. +</p> +<p> + "A bonny night ye hae made o't, Mr. Steenie," said Jenny Rintherout, who, + impatient of remaining so long unnoticed, now presented herself to the + young fisherman—"A bonny night ye hae made o't, tramping about wi' + gaberlunzies, and getting yoursell hunted wi' worricows, when ye suld be + sleeping in your bed, like your father, honest man." +</p> +<p> + This attack called forth a suitable response of rustic raillery from the + young fisherman. An attack was now commenced upon the car-cakes and + smoked fish, and sustained with great perseverance by assistance of a + bicker or two of twopenny ale and a bottle of gin. The mendicant then + retired to the straw of an out-house adjoining,—the children had one by + one crept into their nests,—the old grandmother was deposited in her + flock-bed,—Steenie, notwithstanding his preceding fatigue, had the + gallantry to accompany Miss Rintherout to her own mansion, and at what + hour he returned the story saith not,—and the matron of the family, + having laid the gathering-coal upon the fire, and put things in some sort + of order, retired to rest the last of the family. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0006"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER SIXTH. +</h2> +<pre> + —Many great ones + Would part with half their states, to have the plan + And credit to beg in the first style. + Beggar's Bush. +</pre> +<p> + Old Edie was stirring with the lark, and his first inquiry was after + Steenie and the pocket-book. The young fisherman had been under the + necessity of attending his father before daybreak, to avail themselves of + the tide, but he had promised that, immediately on his return, the + pocket-book, with all its contents, carefully wrapped up in a piece of + sail-cloth, should be delivered by him to Ringan Aikwood, for + Dousterswivel, the owner. +</p> +<p> + The matron had prepared the morning meal for the family, and, shouldering + her basket of fish, tramped sturdily away towards Fairport. The children + were idling round the door, for the day was fair and sun-shiney. The + ancient grandame, again seated on her wicker-chair by the fire, had + resumed her eternal spindle, wholly unmoved by the yelling and screaming + of the children, and the scolding of the mother, which had preceded the + dispersion of the family. Edie had arranged his various bags, and was + bound for the renewal of his wandering life, but first advanced with due + courtesy to take his leave of the ancient crone. +</p> +<p> + "Gude day to ye, cummer, and mony ane o' them. I will be back about the + fore-end o'har'st, and I trust to find ye baith haill and fere." +</p> +<p> + "Pray that ye may find me in my quiet grave," said the old woman, in a + hollow and sepulchral voice, but without the agitation of a single + feature. +</p> +<p> + "Ye're auld, cummer, and sae am I mysell; but we maun abide His will— + we'll no be forgotten in His good time." +</p> +<p> + "Nor our deeds neither," said the crone: "what's dune in the body maun be + answered in the spirit." +</p> +<p> + "I wot that's true; and I may weel tak the tale hame to mysell, that hae + led a misruled and roving life. But ye were aye a canny wife. We're a' + frail—but ye canna hae sae muckle to bow ye down." +</p> +<p> + "Less than I might have had—but mair, O far mair, than wad sink the + stoutest brig e'er sailed out o' Fairport harbour!—Didna somebody say + yestreen—at least sae it is borne in on my mind, but auld folk hae weak + fancies—did not somebody say that Joscelind, Countess of Glenallan, was + departed frae life?" +</p> +<p> + "They said the truth whaever said it," answered old Edie; "she was buried + yestreen by torch-light at St. Ruth's, and I, like a fule, gat a gliff + wi' seeing the lights and the riders." +</p> +<p> + "It was their fashion since the days of the Great Earl that was killed at + Harlaw;—they did it to show scorn that they should die and be buried + like other mortals; the wives o' the house of Glenallan wailed nae wail + for the husband, nor the sister for the brother.—But is she e'en ca'd to + the lang account?" +</p> +<p> + "As sure," answered Edie, "as we maun a' abide it." +</p> +<p> + "Then I'll unlade my mind, come o't what will." +</p> +<p> + This she spoke with more alacrity than usually attended her expressions, + and accompanied her words with an attitude of the hand, as if throwing + something from her. She then raised up her form, once tall, and still + retaining the appearance of having been so, though bent with age and + rheumatism, and stood before the beggar like a mummy animated by some + wandering spirit into a temporary resurrection. Her light-blue eyes + wandered to and fro, as if she occasionally forgot and again remembered + the purpose for which her long and withered hand was searching among the + miscellaneous contents of an ample old-fashioned pocket. At length she + pulled out a small chip-box, and opening it, took out a handsome ring, in + which was set a braid of hair, composed of two different colours, black + and light brown, twined together, encircled with brilliants of + considerable value. +</p> +<p> + "Gudeman," she said to Ochiltree, "as ye wad e'er deserve mercy, ye maun + gang my errand to the house of Glenallan, and ask for the Earl." +</p> +<p> + "The Earl of Glenallan, cummer! ou, he winna see ony o' the gentles o' + the country, and what likelihood is there that he wad see the like o' an + auld gaberlunzie?" +</p> +<p> + "Gang your ways and try;—and tell him that Elspeth o' the + Craigburnfoot—he'll mind me best by that name—maun see him or she be relieved frae + her lang pilgrimage, and that she sends him that ring in token of the + business she wad speak o'." +</p> +<p> + Ochiltree looked on the ring with some admiration of its apparent value, + and then carefully replacing it in the box, and wrapping it in an old + ragged handkerchief, he deposited the token in his bosom. +</p> +<p> + "Weel, gudewife," he said, "I'se do your bidding, or it's no be my fault. + But surely there was never sic a braw propine as this sent to a yerl by + an auld fishwife, and through the hands of a gaberlunzie beggar." +</p> +<p> + With this reflection, Edie took up his pike-staff, put on his + broad-brimmed bonnet, and set forth upon his pilgrimage. The old woman + remained for some time standing in a fixed posture, her eyes directed to + the door through which her ambassador had departed. The appearance of + excitation, which the conversation had occasioned, gradually left her + features; she sank down upon her accustomed seat, and resumed her + mechanical labour of the distaff and spindle, with her wonted air of + apathy. +</p> +<p> + Edie Ochiltree meanwhile advanced on his journey. The distance to + Glenallan was ten miles, a march which the old soldier accomplished in + about four hours. With the curiosity belonging to his idle trade and + animated character, he tortured himself the whole way to consider what + could be the meaning of this mysterious errand with which he was + entrusted, or what connection the proud, wealthy, and powerful Earl of + Glenallan could have with the crimes or penitence of an old doting woman, + whose rank in life did not greatly exceed that of her messenger. He + endeavoured to call to memory all that he had ever known or heard of the + Glenallan family, yet, having done so, remained altogether unable to form + a conjecture on the subject. He knew that the whole extensive estate of + this ancient and powerful family had descended to the Countess, lately + deceased, who inherited, in a most remarkable degree, the stern, fierce, + and unbending character which had distinguished the house of Glenallan + since they first figured in Scottish annals. Like the rest of her + ancestors, she adhered zealously to the Roman Catholic faith, and was + married to an English gentleman of the same communion, and of large + fortune, who did not survive their union two years. The Countess was, + therefore, left an early widow, with the uncontrolled management of the + large estates of her two sons. The elder, Lord Geraldin, who was to + succeed to the title and fortune of Glenallan, was totally dependent on + his mother during her life. The second, when he came of age, assumed the + name and arms of his father, and took possession of his estate, according + to the provisions of the Countess's marriage-settlement. After this + period, he chiefly resided in England, and paid very few and brief visits + to his mother and brother; and these at length were altogether dispensed + with, in consequence of his becoming a convert to the reformed religion. +</p> +<p> + But even before this mortal offence was given to its mistress, his + residence at Glenallan offered few inducements to a gay young man like + Edward Geraldin Neville, though its gloom and seclusion seemed to suit + the retired and melancholy habits of his elder brother. Lord Geraldin, in + the outset of life, had been a young man of accomplishment and hopes. + Those who knew him upon his travels entertained the highest expectations + of his future career. But such fair dawns are often strangely overcast. + The young nobleman returned to Scotland, and after living about a year in + his mother's society at Glenallan House, he seemed to have adopted all + the stern gloom and melancholy of her character. Excluded from politics + by the incapacities attached to those of his religion, and from all + lighter avocationas by choice, Lord Geraldin led a life of the strictest + retirement. His ordinary society was composed of the clergyman of his + communion, who occasionally visited his mansion; and very rarely, upon + stated occasions of high festival, one or two families who still + professed the Catholic religion were formally entertained at Glenallan + House. But this was all; their heretic neighbours knew nothing of the + family whatever; and even the Catholics saw little more than the + sumptuous entertainment and solemn parade which was exhibited on those + formal occasions, from which all returned without knowing whether most to + wonder at the stern and stately demeanour of the Countess, or the deep + and gloomy dejection which never ceased for a moment to cloud the + features of her son. The late event had put him in possession of his + fortune and title, and the neighbourhood had already begun to conjecture + whether gaiety would revive with independence, when those who had some + occasional acquaintance with the interior of the family spread abroad a + report, that the Earl's constitution was undermined by religious + austerities, and that in all probability he would soon follow his mother + to the grave. This event was the more probable, as his brother had died + of a lingering complaint, which, in the latter years of his life, had + affected at once his frame and his spirits; so that heralds and + genealogists were already looking back into their records to discover the + heir of this ill-fated family, and lawyers were talking with gleesome + anticipation, of the probability of a "great Glenallan cause." +</p> +<p> + As Edie Ochiltree approached the front of Glenallan House,* an ancient + building of great extent, the most modern part of which had been designed + by the celebrated Inigo Jones, he began to consider in what way he should + be most likely to gain access for delivery of his message; and, after + much consideration, resolved to send the token to the Earl by one of the + domestics. +</p> +<p> + * [Supposed to represent Glammis Castle, in Forfarshire, with which the + Author was well acquainted.] +</p> +<p> + With this purpose he stopped at a cottage, where he obtained the means of + making up the ring in a sealed packet like a petition, addressed, <i>Forr + his hounor the Yerl of Glenllan—These.</i> But being aware that missives + delivered at the doors of great houses by such persons as himself, do not + always make their way according to address, Edie determined, like an old + soldier, to reconnoitre the ground before he made his final attack. As he + approached the porter's lodge, he discovered, by the number of poor + ranked before it, some of them being indigent persons in the vicinity, + and others itinerants of his own begging profession,—that there was + about to be a general dole or distribution of charity. +</p> +<p> + "A good turn," said Edie to himself, "never goes unrewarded—I'll maybe + get a good awmous that I wad hae missed but for trotting on this auld + wife's errand." +</p> +<p> + Accordingly, he ranked up with the rest of this ragged regiment, assuming + a station as near the front as possible,—a distinction due, as he + conceived, to his blue gown and badge, no less than to his years and + experience; but he soon found there was another principle of precedence + in this assembly, to which he had not adverted. +</p> +<p> + "Are ye a triple man, friend, that ye press forward sae bauldly?—I'm + thinking no, for there's nae Catholics wear that badge." +</p> +<p> + "Na, na, I am no a Roman," said Edie. +</p> +<p> + "Then shank yoursell awa to the double folk, or single folk, that's the + Episcopals or Presbyterians yonder: it's a shame to see a heretic hae sic + a lang white beard, that would do credit to a hermit." +</p> +<p> + Ochiltree, thus rejected from the society of the Catholic mendicants, or + those who called themselves such, went to station himself with the + paupers of the communion of the church of England, to whom the noble + donor allotted a double portion of his charity. But never was a poor + occasional conformist more roughly rejected by a High-church + congregation, even when that matter was furiously agitated in the days of + good Queen Anne. +</p> +<p> + "See to him wi' his badge!" they said;—"he hears ane o' the king's + Presbyterian chaplains sough out a sermon on the morning of every + birth-day, and now he would pass himsell for ane o' the Episcopal church! + Na, na!—we'll take care o' that." +</p> +<p> + Edie, thus rejected by Rome and Prelacy, was fain to shelter himself from + the laughter of his brethren among the thin group of Presbyterians, who + had either disdained to disguise their religious opinions for the sake of + an augmented dole, or perhaps knew they could not attempt the imposition + without a certainty of detection. +</p> +<p> + The same degree of precedence was observed in the mode of distributing + the charity, which consisted in bread, beef, and a piece of money, to + each individual of all the three classes. The almoner, an ecclesiastic of + grave appearance and demeanour, superintended in person the accommodation + of the Catholic mendicants, asking a question or two of each as he + delivered the charity, and recommending to their prayers the soul of + Joscelind, late Countess of Glenallan, mother of their benefactor. The + porter, distinguished by his long staff headed with silver, and by the + black gown tufted with lace of the same colour, which he had assumed upon + the general mourning in the family, overlooked the distribution of the + dole among the prelatists. The less-favoured kirk-folk were committed to + the charge of an aged domestic. +</p> +<p> + As this last discussed some disputed point with the porter, his name, as + it chanced to be occasionally mentioned, and then his features, struck + Ochiltree, and awakened recollections of former times. The rest of the + assembly were now retiring, when the domestic, again approaching the + place where Edie still lingered, said, in a strong Aberdeenshire accent, + "Fat is the auld feel-body deeing, that he canna gang avay, now that he's + gotten baith meat and siller?" +</p> +<p> + "Francis Macraw," answered Edie Ochiltree, "d'ye no mind Fontenoy, and + keep thegither front and rear?'" +</p> +<p> + "Ohon! ohon!" cried Francie, with a true north-country yell of + recognition, "naebody could hae said that word but my auld front-rank + man, Edie Ochiltree! But I'm sorry to see ye in sic a peer state, man." +</p> +<p> + "No sae ill aff as ye may think, Francis. But I'm laith to leave this + place without a crack wi' you, and I kenna when I may see you again, for + your folk dinna mak Protestants welcome, and that's ae reason that I hae + never been here before." +</p> +<p> + "Fusht, fusht," said Francie, "let that flee stick i' the wa'—when the + dirt's dry it will rub out;—and come you awa wi' me, and I'll gie ye + something better thau that beef bane, man." +</p> +<p> + Having then spoke a confidential word with the porter (probably to + request his connivance), and having waited until the almoner had returned + into the house with slow and solemn steps, Francie Macraw introduced his + old comrade into the court of Glenallan House, the gloomy gateway of + which was surmounted by a huge scutcheon, in which the herald and + undertaker had mingled, as usual, the emblems of human pride and of human + nothingness,—the Countess's hereditary coat-of-arms, with all its + numerous quarterings, disposed in a lozenge, and surrounded by the + separate shields of her paternal and maternal ancestry, intermingled with + scythes, hour glasses, skulls, and other symbols of that mortality which + levels all distinctions. Conducting his friend as speedily as possible + along the large paved court, Macraw led the way through a side-door to a + small apartment near the servants' hall, which, in virtue of his personal + attendance upon the Earl of Glenallan, he was entitled to call his own. + To produce cold meat of various kinds, strong beer, and even a glass of + spirits, was no difficulty to a person of Francis's importance, who had + not lost, in his sense of conscious dignity, the keen northern prudence + which recommended a good understanding with the butler. Our mendicant + envoy drank ale, and talked over old stories with his comrade, until, no + other topic of conversation occurring, he resolved to take up the theme + of his embassy, which had for some time escaped his memory. +</p> +<p> + "He had a petition to present to the Earl," he said;—for he judged it + prudent to say nothing of the ring, not knowing, as he afterwards + observed, how far the manners of a single soldier* might have been + corrupted by service in a great house. +</p> +<p> + * A single soldier means, in Scotch, a private soldier. +</p> +<p> + "Hout, tout, man," said Francie, "the Earl will look at nae petitions— + but I can gie't to the almoner." +</p> +<p> + "But it relates to some secret, that maybe my lord wad like best to see't + himsell." +</p> +<p> + "I'm jeedging that's the very reason that the almoner will be for seeing + it the first and foremost." +</p> +<p> + "But I hae come a' this way on purpose to deliver it, Francis, and ye + really maun help me at a pinch." +</p> +<p> + "Neer speed then if I dinna," answered the Aberdeenshire man: "let them + be as cankered as they like, they can but turn me awa, and I was just + thinking to ask my discharge, and gang down to end my days at Inverurie." +</p> +<p> + With this doughty resolution of serving his friend at all ventures, since + none was to be encountered which could much inconvenience himself, + Francie Macraw left the apartment. It was long before he returned, and + when he did, his manner indicated wonder and agitation. +</p> +<p> + "I am nae seer gin ye be Edie Ochiltree o' Carrick's company in the + Forty-twa, or gin ye be the deil in his likeness!" +</p> +<p> + "And what makes ye speak in that gait?" demanded the astonished + mendicant. +</p> +<p> + "Because my lord has been in sic a distress and surpreese as I neer saw a + man in my life. But he'll see you—I got that job cookit. He was like a + man awa frae himsell for mony minutes, and I thought he wad hae swarv't + a'thegither,—and fan he cam to himsell, he asked fae brought the + packet—and fat trow ye I said?" +</p> +<p> + "An auld soger," says Edie—"that does likeliest at a gentle's door; at a + farmer's it's best to say ye're an auld tinkler, if ye need ony quarters, + for maybe the gudewife will hae something to souther." +</p> +<p> + "But I said neer ane o' the twa," answered Francis; "my lord cares as + little about the tane as the tother—for he's best to them that can + souther up our sins. Sae I e'en said the bit paper was brought by an auld + man wi' a long fite beard—he might be a capeechin freer for fat I ken'd, + for he was dressed like an auld palmer. Sae ye'll be sent up for fanever + he can find mettle to face ye." +</p> +<p> + "I wish I was weel through this business," thought Edie to himself; "mony + folk surmise that the Earl's no very right in the judgment, and wha can + say how far he may be offended wi' me for taking upon me sae muckle?" +</p> +<p> + But there was now no room for retreat—a bell sounded from a distant part + of the mansion, and Macraw said, with a smothered accent, as if already + in his master's presence, "That's my lord's bell!—follow me, and step + lightly and cannily, Edie." +</p> +<p> + Edie followed his guide, who seemed to tread as if afraid of being + overheard, through a long passage, and up a back stair, which admitted + them into the family apartments. They were ample and extensive, furnished + at such cost as showed the ancient importance and splendour of the + family. But all the ornaments were in the taste of a former and distant + period, and one would have almost supposed himself traversing the halls + of a Scottish nobleman before the union of the crowns. The late Countess, + partly from a haughty contempt of the times in which she lived, partly + from her sense of family pride, had not permitted the furniture to be + altered or modernized during her residence at Glenallan House. The most + magnificent part of the decorations was a valuable collection of pictures + by the best masters, whose massive frames were somewhat tarnished by + time. In this particular also the gloomy taste of the family seemed to + predominate. There were some fine family portraits by Vandyke and other + masters of eminence; but the collection was richest in the Saints and + Martyrdoms of Domenichino, Velasquez, and Murillo, and other subjects of + the same kind, which had been selected in preference to landscapes or + historical pieces. The manner in which these awful, and sometimes + disgusting, subjects were represented, harmonized with the gloomy state + of the apartments,—a circumstance which was not altogether lost on the + old man, as he traversed them under the guidance of his quondam + fellow-soldier. He was about to express some sentiment of this kind, but + Francie imposed silence on him by signs, and opening a door at the end of + the long picture-gallery, ushered him into a small antechamber hung with + black. Here they found the almoner, with his ear turned to a door + opposite that by which they entered, in the attitude of one who listens + with attention, but is at the same time afraid of being detected in the + act. +</p> +<p> + The old domestic and churchman started when they perceived each other. + But the almoner first recovered his recollection, and advancing towards + Macraw, said, under his breath, but with an authoritative tone, "How dare + you approach the Earl's apartment without knocking? and who is this + stranger, or what has he to do here?—Retire to the gallery, and wait for + me there." +</p> +<p> + "It's impossible just now to attend your reverence," answered Macraw, + raising his voice so as to be heard in the next room, being conscious + that the priest would not maintain the altercation within hearing of his + patron,—"the Earl's bell has rung." +</p> +<p> + He had scarce uttered the words, when it was rung again with greater + violence than before; and the ecclesiastic, perceiving further + expostulation impossible, lifted his finger at Macraw, with a menacing + attitude, as he left the apartment. +</p> +<p> + "I tell'd ye sae," said the Aberdeen man in a whisper to Edie, and then + proceeded to open the door near which they had observed the chaplain + stationed. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0007"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER SEVENTH. +</h2> +<pre> + —This ring.— + This little ring, with necromantic force, + Has raised the ghost of pleasure to my fears, + Conjured the sense of honour and of love + Into such shapes, they fright me from myself. + The Fatal Marriage. +</pre> +<p> + The ancient forms of mourning were observed in Glenallan House, + notwithstanding the obduracy with which the members of the family were + popularly supposed to refuse to the dead the usual tribute of + lamentation. It was remarked, that when she received the fatal letter + announcing the death of her second, and, as was once believed, her + favourite son, the hand of the Countess did not shake, nor her eyelid + twinkle, any more than upon perusal of a letter of ordinary business. + Heaven only knows whether the suppression of maternal sorrow, which her + pride commanded, might not have some effect in hastening her own death. + It was at least generally supposed that the apoplectic stroke, which so + soon afterwards terminated her existence, was, as it were, the vengeance + of outraged Nature for the restraint to which her feelings had been + subjected. But although Lady Glenallan forebore the usual external signs + of grief, she had caused many of the apartments, amongst others her own + and that of the Earl, to be hung with the exterior trappings of woe. +</p> +<p> + The Earl of Glenallan was therefore seated in an apartment hung with + black cloth, which waved in dusky folds along its lofty walls. A screen, + also covered with black baize, placed towards the high and narrow window, + intercepted much of the broken light which found its way through the + stained glass, that represented, with such skill as the fourteenth + century possessed, the life and sorrows of the prophet Jeremiah. The + table at which the Earl was seated was lighted with two lamps wrought in + silver, shedding that unpleasant and doubtful light which arises from the + mingling of artificial lustre with that of general daylight. The same + table displayed a silver crucifix, and one or two clasped parchment + books. A large picture, exquisitely painted by Spagnoletto, represented + the martyrdom of St. Stephen, and was the only ornament of the apartment. +</p> +<p> + The inhabitant and lord of this disconsolate chamber was a man not past + the prime of life, yet so broken down with disease and mental misery, so + gaunt and ghastly, that he appeared but a wreck of manhood; and when he + hastily arose and advanced towards his visitor, the exertion seemed + almost to overpower his emaciated frame. As they met in the midst of the + apartment, the contrast they exhibited was very striking. The hale cheek, + firm step, erect stature, and undaunted presence and bearing of the old + mendicant, indicated patience and content in the extremity of age, and in + the lowest condition to which humanity can sink; while the sunken eye, + pallid cheek, and tottering form of the nobleman with whom he was + confronted, showed how little wealth, power, and even the advantages of + youth, have to do with that which gives repose to the mind, and firmness + to the frame. +</p> +<p> + The Earl met the old man in the middle of the room, and having commanded + his attendant to withdraw into the gallery, and suffer no one to enter + the antechamber till he rung the bell, awaited, with hurried yet fearful + impatience, until he heard first the door of his apartment, and then that + of the antechamber, shut and fastened by the spring-bolt. When he was + satisfied with this security against being overheard, Lord Glenallan came + close up to the mendicant, whom he probably mistook for some person of a + religious order in disguise, and said, in a hasty yet faltering tone, "In + the name of all our religion holds most holy, tell me, reverend father, + what am I to expect from a communication opened by a token connected with + such horrible recollections?" +</p> +<p> + The old man, appalled by a manner so different from what he had expected + from the proud and powerful nobleman, was at a loss how to answer, and in + what manner to undeceive him. "Tell me," continued the Earl, in a tone of + increasing trepidation and agony—"tell me, do you come to say that all + that has been done to expiate guilt so horrible, has been too little and + too trivial for the offence, and to point out new and more efficacious + modes of severe penance?—I will not blench from it, father—let me + suffer the pains of my crime here in the body, rather than hereafter in + the spirit!" +</p> +<p> + Edie had now recollection enough to perceive, that if he did not + interrupt the frankness of Lord Glenallan's admissions, he was likely to + become the confidant of more than might be safe for him to know. He + therefore uttered with a hasty and trembling voice—"Your lordship's + honour is mistaken—I am not of your persuasion, nor a clergyman, but, + with all reverence, only puir Edie Ochiltree, the king's bedesman and + your honour's." +</p> +<p> + This explanation he accompanied by a profound bow after his manner, and + then, drawing himself up erect, rested his arm on his staff, threw back + his long white hair, and fixed his eyes upon the Earl, as he waited for + an answer. +</p> +<p> + "And you are not then," said Lord Glenallan, after a pause of surprise— + "You are not then a Catholic priest?" +</p> +<p> + "God forbid!" said Edie, forgetting in his confusion to whom he was + speaking; "I am only the king's bedesman and your honour's, as I said + before." +</p> +<p> + The Earl turned hastily away, and paced the room twice or thrice, as if + to recover the effects of his mistake, and then, coming close up to the + mendicant, he demanded, in a stern and commanding tone, what he meant by + intruding himself on his privacy, and from whence he had got the ring + which he had thought proper to send him. Edie, a man of much spirit, was + less daunted at this mode of interrogation than he had been confused by + the tone of confidence in which the Earl had opened their conversation. + To the reiterated question from whom he had obtained the ring, he + answered composedly, "From one who was better known to the Earl than to + him." +</p> +<p> + "Better known to me, fellow?" said Lord Glenallan: "what is your + meaning?—explain yourself instantly, or you shall experience the + consequence of breaking in upon the hours of family distress." +</p> +<p> + "It was auld Elspeth Mucklebackit that sent me here," said the beggar, + "in order to say"— +</p> +<p> + "You dote, old man!" said the Earl; "I never heard the name—but this + dreadful token reminds me"— +</p> +<p> + "I mind now, my lord," said Ochiltree, "she tauld me your lordship would + be mair familiar wi' her, if I ca'd her Elspeth o' the Craigburnfoot—she + had that name when she lived on your honour's land, that is, your + honour's worshipful mother's that was then—Grace be wi' her!" +</p> +<p> + "Ay," said the appalled nobleman, as his countenance sunk, and his cheek + assumed a hue yet more cadaverous; "that name is indeed written in the + most tragic page of a deplorable history. But what can she desire of me? + Is she dead or living?" +</p> +<p> + "Living, my lord; and entreats to see your lordship before she dies, for + she has something to communicate that hangs upon her very soul, and she + says she canna flit in peace until she sees you." +</p> +<p> + "Not until she sees me!—what can that mean? But she is doting with age + and infirmity. I tell thee, friend, I called at her cottage myself, not a + twelvemonth since, from a report that she was in distress, and she did + not even know my face or voice." +</p> +<p> + "If your honour wad permit me," said Edie, to whom the length of the + conference restored a part of his professional audacity and native + talkativeness—"if your honour wad but permit me, I wad say, under + correction of your lordship's better judgment, that auld Elspeth's like + some of the ancient ruined strengths and castles that ane sees amang the + hills. There are mony parts of her mind that appear, as I may say, laid + waste and decayed, but then there's parts that look the steever, and the + stronger, and the grander, because they are rising just like to fragments + amaong the ruins o' the rest. She's an awful woman." +</p> +<p> + "She always was so," said the Earl, almost unconsciously echoing the + observation of the mendicant; "she always was different from other + women—likest perhaps to her who is now no more, in her temper and turn of + mind.—She wishes to see me, then?" +</p> +<p> + "Before she dies," said Edie, "she earnestly entreats that pleasure." +</p> +<p> + "It will be a pleasure to neither of us," said the Earl, sternly, "yet + she shall be gratified. She lives, I think, on the sea-shore to the + southward of Fairport?" +</p> +<p> + "Just between Monkbarns and Knockwinnock Castle, but nearer to Monkbarns. + Your lordship's honour will ken the laird and Sir Arthur, doubtless?" +</p> +<p> + A stare, as if he did not comprehend the question, was Lord Glenallan's + answer. Edie saw his mind was elsewhere, and did not venture to repeat a + query which was so little germain to the matter. +</p> +<p> + "Are you a Catholic, old man?" demanded the Earl. +</p> +<p> + "No, my lord," said Ochiltree stoutly; for the remembrance of the unequal + division of the dole rose in his mind at the moment; "I thank Heaven I am + a good Protestant." +</p> +<p> + "He who can conscientiously call himself <i>good,</i> has indeed reason to + thank Heaven, be his form of Christianity what it will—But who is he + that shall dare to do so!" +</p> +<p> + "Not I," said Edie; "I trust to beware of the sin of presumption." +</p> +<p> + "What was your trade in your youth?" continued the Earl. +</p> +<p> + "A soldier, my lord; and mony a sair day's kemping I've seen. I was to + have been made a sergeant, but"— +</p> +<p> + "A soldier! then you have slain and burnt, and sacked and spoiled?" +</p> +<p> + "I winna say," replied Edie, "that I have been better than my + neighbours;—it's a rough trade—war's sweet to them that never tried + it." +</p> +<p> + "And you are now old and miserable, asking from precarious charity the + food which in your youth you tore from the hand of the poor peasant?" +</p> +<p> + "I am a beggar, it is true, my lord; but I am nae just sae miserable + neither. For my sins, I hae had grace to repent of them, if I might say + sae, and to lay them where they may be better borne than by me; and for + my food, naebody grudges an auld man a bit and a drink—Sae I live as I + can, and am contented to die when I am ca'd upon." +</p> +<p> + "And thus, then, with little to look back upon that is pleasant or + praiseworthy in your past life—with less to look forward to on this side + of eternity, you are contented to drag out the rest of your existence? + Go, begone! and in your age and poverty and weariness, never envy the + lord of such a mansion as this, either in his sleeping or waking + moments—Here is something for thee." +</p> +<p> + The Earl put into the old man's hand five or six guineas. Edie would + perhaps have stated his scruples, as upon other occasions, to the amount + of the benefaction, but the tone of Lord Glenallan was too absolute to + admit of either answer or dispute. The Earl then called his servant—"See + this old man safe from the castle—let no one ask him any questions—and + you, friend, begone, and forget the road that leads to my house." +</p> +<p> + "That would be difficult for me," said Edie, looking at the gold which he + still held in his hand, "that would be e'en difficult, since your honour + has gien me such gade cause to remember it." +</p> +<p> + Lord Glenallan stared, as hardly comprehending the old man's boldness in + daring to bandy words with him, and, with his hand, made him another + signal of departure, which the mendicant instantly obeyed. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0008"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER EIGHTH. +</h2> +<pre> + For he was one in all their idle sport, + And like a monarch, ruled their little court + The pliant bow he formed, the flying ball, + The bat, the wicket, were his labours all. + Crabbe's Village. +</pre> +<p> + Francis Macraw, agreeably to the commands of his master, attended the + mendicant, in order to see him fairly out of the estate, without + permitting him to have conversation, or intercourse, with any of the + Earl's dependents or domestics. But, judiciously considering that the + restriction did not extend to himself, who was the person entrusted with + the convoy, he used every measure in his power to extort from Edie the + nature of his confidential and secret interview with Lord Glenallan. But + Edie had been in his time accustomed to cross-examination, and easily + evaded those of his quondam comrade. "The secrets of grit folk," said + Ochiltree within himself, "are just like the wild beasts that are shut up + in cages. Keep them hard and fast sneaked up, and it's a' very weel or + better—but ance let them out, they will turn and rend you. I mind how + ill Dugald Gunn cam aff for letting loose his tongue about the Major's + leddy and Captain Bandilier." +</p> +<p> + Francis was therefore foiled in his assaults upon the fidelity of the + mendicant, and, like an indifferent chess-player, became, at every + unsuccessful movement, more liable to the counter-checks of his opponent. +</p> +<p> + "Sae ye uphauld ye had nae particulars to say to my lord but about yer + ain matters?" +</p> +<p> + "Ay, and about the wee bits o' things I had brought frae abroad," said + Edie. "I ken'd you popist folk are unco set on the relics that are + fetched frae far-kirks and sae forth." +</p> +<p> + "Troth, my Lord maun be turned feel outright," said the domestic, "an he + puts himsell into sic a carfuffle, for onything ye could bring him, + Edie." +</p> +<p> + "I doubtna ye may say true in the main, neighbour," replied the beggar; + "but maybe he's had some hard play in his younger days, Francis, and that + whiles unsettles folk sair." +</p> +<p> + "Troth, Edie, and ye may say that—and since it's like yell neer come + back to the estate, or, if ye dee, that ye'll no find me there, I'se e'en + tell you he had a heart in his young time sae wrecked and rent, that it's + a wonder it hasna broken outright lang afore this day." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, say ye sae?" said Ochiltree; "that maun hae been about a woman, I + reckon?" +</p> +<p> + "Troth, and ye hae guessed it," said Francie—"jeest a cusin o' his + nain—Miss Eveline Neville, as they suld hae ca'd her;—there was a sough in + the country about it, but it was hushed up, as the grandees were + concerned;—it's mair than twenty years syne—ay, it will be + three-and-twenty." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, I was in America then," said the mendicant, "and no in the way to + hear the country clashes." +</p> +<p> + "There was little clash about it, man," replied Macraw; "he liked this + young leddy, ana suld hae married her, but his mother fand it out, and + then the deil gaed o'er Jock Webster. At last, the peer lass clodded + hersell o'er the scaur at the Craigburnfoot into the sea, and there was + an end o't." +</p> +<p> + "An end ot wi' the puir leddy," said the mendicant, "but, as I reckon, + nae end o't wi' the yerl." +</p> +<p> + "Nae end o't till his life makes an end," answered the Aberdonian. +</p> +<p> + "But what for did the auld Countess forbid the marriage?" continued the + persevering querist. +</p> +<p> + "Fat for!—she maybe didna weel ken for fat hersell, for she gar'd a' bow + to her bidding, right or wrang—But it was ken'd the young leddy was + inclined to some o' the heresies of the country—mair by token, she was + sib to him nearer than our Church's rule admits of. Sae the leddy was + driven to the desperate act, and the yerl has never since held his head + up like a man." +</p> +<p> + "Weel away!" replied Ochiltree:—"it's e'en queer I neer heard this tale + afore." +</p> +<p> + "It's e'en queer that ye heard it now, for deil ane o' the servants durst + hae spoken o't had the auld Countess been living. Eh, man, Edie! but she + was a trimmer—it wad hae taen a skeely man to hae squared wi' her!—But + she's in her grave, and we may loose our tongues a bit fan we meet a + friend.—But fare ye weel, Edie—I maun be back to the evening-service. + An' ye come to Inverurie maybe sax months awa, dinna forget to ask after + Francie Macraw." +</p> +<p> + What one kindly pressed, the other as firmly promised; and the friends + having thus parted, with every testimony of mutual regard, the domestic + of Lord Glenallan took his road back to the seat of his master, leaving + Ochiltree to trace onward his habitual pilgrimage. +</p> +<p> + It was a fine summer evening, and the world—that is, the little circle + which was all in all to the individual by whom it was trodden, lay before + Edie Ochiltree, for the choosing of his night's quarters. When he had + passed the less hospitable domains of Glenallan, he had in his option so + many places of refuge for the evening, that he was nice, and even + fastidious in the choice. Ailie Sim's public was on the road-side about a + mile before him, but there would be a parcel of young fellows there on + the Saturday night, and that was a bar to civil conversation. Other + "gudemen and gudewives," as the farmers and their dames are termed in + Scotland, successively presented themselves to his imagination. But one + was deaf, and could not hear him; another toothless, and could not make + him hear; a third had a cross temper; and a fourth an ill-natured + house-dog. At Monkbarns or Knockwinnock he was sure of a favourable and + hospitable reception; but they lay too distant to be conveniently reached + that night. +</p> +<p> + "I dinna ken how it is," said the old man, "but I am nicer about my + quarters this night than ever I mind having been in my life. I think, + having seen a' the braws yonder, and finding out ane may be happier + without them, has made me proud o' my ain lot—But I wuss it bode me + gude, for pride goeth before destruction. At ony rate, the warst barn + e'er man lay in wad be a pleasanter abode than Glenallan House, wi' a' + the pictures and black velvet, and silver bonny-wawlies belonging to it— + Sae I'll e'en settle at ance, and put in for Ailie Sims." +</p> +<p> + As the old man descended the hill above the little hamlet to which he was + bending his course, the setting sun had relieved its inmates from their + labour, and the young men, availing themselves of the fine evening, were + engaged in the sport of long-bowls on a patch of common, while the women + and elders looked on. The shout, the laugh, the exclamations of winners + and losers, came in blended chorus up the path which Ochiltree was + descending, and awakened in his recollection the days when he himself had + been a keen competitor, and frequently victor, in games of strength and + agility. These remembrances seldom fail to excite a sigh, even when the + evening of life is cheered by brighter prospects than those of our poor + mendicant. "At that time of day," was his natural reflection, "I would + have thought as little about ony auld palmering body that was coming down + the edge of Kinblythemont, as ony o' thae stalwart young chiels does + e'enow about auld Edie Ochiltree." +</p> +<p> + He was, however, presently cheered, by finding that more importance was + attached to his arrival than his modesty had anticipated. A disputed cast + had occurred between the bands of players, and as the gauger favoured the + one party, and the schoolmaster the other, the matter might be said to be + taken up by the higher powers. The miller and smith, also, had espoused + different sides, and, considering the vivacity of two such disputants, + there was reason to doubt whether the strife might be amicably + terminated. But the first person who caught a sight of the mendicant + exclaimed, "Ah! here comes auld Edie, that kens the rules of a' country + games better than ony man that ever drave a bowl, or threw an axle-tree, + or putted a stane either;—let's hae nae quarrelling, callants—we'll + stand by auld Edie's judgment." +</p> +<p> + Edie was accordingly welcomed, and installed as umpire, with a general + shout of gratulation. With all the modesty of a Bishop to whom the mitre + is proffered, or of a new Speaker called to the chair, the old man + declined the high trust and responsibility with which it was proposed to + invest him, and, in requital for his self-denial and humility, had the + pleasure of receiving the reiterated assurances of young, old, and + middle-aged, that he was simply the best qualified person for the office + of arbiter "in the haill country-side." Thus encouraged, he proceeded + gravely to the execution of his duty, and, strictly forbidding all + aggravating expressions on either side, he heard the smith and gauger on + one side, the miller and schoolmaster on the other, as junior and senior + counsel. Edie's mind, however, was fully made up on the subject before + the pleading began; like that of many a judge, who must nevertheless go + through all the forms, and endure in its full extent the eloquence and + argumentation of the Bar. For when all had been said on both sides, and + much of it said over oftener than once, our senior, being well and ripely + advised, pronounced the moderate and healing judgment, that the disputed + cast was a drawn one, and should therefore count to neither party. This + judicious decision restored concord to the field of players; they began + anew to arrange their match and their bets, with the clamorous mirth + usual on such occasions of village sport, and the more eager were already + stripping their jackets, and committing them, with their coloured + handkerchiefs, to the care of wives, sisters, and mistresses. But their + mirth was singularly interrupted. +</p> +<p> + On the outside of the group of players began to arise sounds of a + description very different from those of sport—that sort of suppressed + sigh and exclamation, with which the first news of calamity is received + by the hearers, began to be heard indistinctly. A buzz went about among + the women of "Eh, sirs! sae young and sae suddenly summoned!"—It then + extended itself among the men, and silenced the sounds of sportive mirth. +</p> +<p> + All understood at once that some disaster had happened in the country, + and each inquired the cause at his neighbour, who knew as little as the + querist. At length the rumour reached, in a distinct shape, the ears of + Edie Ochiltree, who was in the very centre of the assembly. The boat of + Mucklebackit, the fisherman whom we have so often mentioned, had been + swamped at sea, and four men had perished, it was affirmed, including + Mucklebackit and his son. Rumour had in this, however, as in other cases, + gone beyond the truth. The boat had indeed been overset; but Stephen, or, + as he was called, Steenie Mucklebackit, was the only man who had been + drowned. Although the place of his residence and his mode of life removed + the young man from the society of the country folks, yet they failed not + to pause in their rustic mirth to pay that tribute to sudden calamity + which it seldom fails to receive in cases of infrequent occurrence. To + Ochiltree, in particular, the news came like a knell, the rather that he + had so lately engaged this young man's assistance in an affair of + sportive mischief; and though neither loss nor injury was designed to the + German adept, yet the work was not precisely one in which the latter + hours of life ought to be occupied. +</p> +<p> + Misfortunes never come alone. While Ochiltree, pensively leaning upon his + staff, added his regrets to those of the hamlet which bewailed the young + man's sudden death, and internally blamed himself for the transaction in + which he had so lately engaged him, the old man's collar was seized by a + peace-officer, who displayed his baton in his right hand, and exclaimed, + "In the king's name." +</p> +<p> + The gauger and schoolmaster united their rhetoric, to prove to the + constable and his assistant that he had no right to arrest the king's + bedesman as a vagrant; and the mute eloquence of the miller and smith, + which was vested in their clenched fists, was prepared to give Highland + bail for their arbiter; his blue gown, they said, was his warrant for + travelling the country. +</p> +<p> + "But his blue gown," answered the officer, "is nae protection for + assault, robbery, and murder; and my warrant is against him for these + crimes." +</p> +<p> + "Murder!" said Edie, "murder! wha did I e'er murder?" +</p> +<p> + "Mr. German Doustercivil, the agent at Glen-Withershins mining-works." +</p> +<p> + "Murder Doustersnivel?—hout, he's living, and life-like, man." +</p> +<p> + "Nae thanks to you if he be; he had a sair struggle for his life, if a' + be true he tells, and ye maun answer for't at the bidding of the law." +</p> +<p> + The defenders of the mendicant shrunk back at hearing the atrocity of the + charges against him, but more than one kind hand thrust meat and bread + and pence upon Edie, to maintain him in the prison, to which the officers + were about to conduct him. +</p> +<p> + "Thanks to ye! God bless ye a', bairns!—I've gotten out o' mony a snare + when I was waur deserving o' deliverance—I shall escape like a bird from + the fowler. Play out your play, and never mind me—I am mair grieved for + the puir lad that's gane, than for aught they can do to me." +</p> +<p> + Accordingly, the unresisting prisoner was led off, while he mechanically + accepted and stored in his wallets the alms which poured in on every + hand, and ere he left the hamlet, was as deep-laden as a government + victualler. The labour of bearing this accumulating burden was, however, + abridged, by the officer procuring a cart and horse to convey the old man + to a magistrate, in order to his examination and committal. +</p> +<p> + The disaster of Steenie, and the arrest of Edie, put a stop to the sports + of the village, the pensive inhabitants of which began to speculate upon + the vicissitudes of human affairs, which had so suddenly consigned one of + their comrades to the grave, and placed their master of the revels in + some danger of being hanged. The character of Dousterswivel being pretty + generally known, which was in his case equivalent to being pretty + generally detested, there were many speculations upon the probability of + the accusation being malicious. But all agreed, that if Edie Ochiltree + behoved in all events to suffer upon this occasion, it was a great pity + he had not better merited his fate by killing Dousterswivel outright. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0009"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER NINTH +</h2> +<pre> + Who is he?—One that for the lack of land + Shall fight upon the water—he hath challenged + Formerly the grand whale; and by his titles + Of Leviathan, Behemoth, and so forth. + He tilted with a sword-fish—Marry, sir, + Th' aquatic had the best—the argument + Still galls our champion's breech. + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + "And the poor young fellow, Steenie Mucklebackit, is to be buried this + morning," said our old friend the Antiquary, as he exchanged his quilted + night-gown for an old-fashioned black coat in lieu of the snuff-coloured + vestment which he ordinarily wore, "and, I presume, it is expected that I + should attend the funeral?" +</p> +<p> + "Ou, ay," answered the faithful Caxon, officiously brushing the white + threads and specks from his patron's habit. "The body, God help us! was + sae broken against the rocks that they're fain to hurry the burial. The + sea's a kittle cast, as I tell my daughter, puir thing, when I want her + to get up her spirits; the sea, says I, Jenny, is as uncertain a + calling"— +</p> +<p> + "As the calling of an old periwig-maker, that's robbed of his business by + crops and the powder-tax. Caxon, thy topics of consolation are as ill + chosen as they are foreign to the present purpose.<i>Quid mihi cum + faemina</i>? What have I to do with thy womankind, who have enough and to + spare of mine own?—I pray of you again, am I expected by these poor + people to attend the funeral of their son?" +</p> +<p> + "Ou, doubtless, your honour is expected," answered Caxon; "weel I wot ye + are expected. Ye ken, in this country ilka gentleman is wussed to be sae + civil as to see the corpse aff his grounds; ye needna gang higher than + the loan-head—it's no expected your honour suld leave the land; it's + just a Kelso convoy, a step and a half ower the doorstane." +</p> +<p> + "A Kelso convoy!" echoed the inquisitive Antiquary; "and why a Kelso + convoy more than any other?" +</p> +<p> + "Dear sir," answered Caxon, "how should I ken? it's just a by-word." +</p> +<p> + "Caxon," answered Oldbuck, "thou art a mere periwig-maker—Had I asked + Ochiltree the question, he would have had a legend ready made to my + hand." +</p> +<p> + "My business," replied Caxon, with more animation than he commonly + displayed, "is with the outside of your honour's head, as ye are + accustomed to say." +</p> +<p> + "True, Caxon, true; and it is no reproach to a thatcher that he is not an + upholsterer." +</p> +<p> + He then took out his memorandum-book and wrote down "Kelso convoy—said + to be a step and a half over the threshold. Authority—Caxon.—<i>Quaere</i>— + Whence derived? <i>Mem.</i> To write to Dr. Graysteel upon the subject." +</p> +<p> + Having made this entry, he resumed—"And truly, as to this custom of the + landlord attending the body of the peasant, I approve it, Caxon. It comes + from ancient times, and was founded deep in the notions of mutual aid and + dependence between the lord and cultivator of the soil. And herein I must + say, the feudal system—(as also in its courtesy towards womankind, in + which it exceeded)—herein, I say, the feudal usages mitigated and + softened the sternness of classical times. No man, Caxon, ever heard of a + Spartan attending the funeral of a Helot—yet I dare be sworn that John + of the Girnel—ye have heard of him, Caxon?" +</p> +<p> + "Ay, ay, sir," answered Caxon; "naebody can hae been lang in your + honour's company without hearing of that gentleman." +</p> +<p> + "Well," continued the Antiquary, "I would bet a trifle there was not a + <i>kolb kerl,</i> or bondsman, or peasant, <i>ascriptus glebae,</i> died upon the + monks' territories down here, but John of the Girnel saw them fairly and + decently interred." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, but if it like your honour, they say he had mair to do wi' the + births than the burials. Ha! ha! ha!" with a gleeful chuckle. +</p> +<p> + "Good, Caxon, very good!—why, you shine this morning." +</p> +<p> + "And besides," added Caxon, slyly, encouraged by his patron's + approbation, "they say, too, that the Catholic priests in thae times gat + something for ganging about to burials." +</p> +<p> + "Right, Caxon! right as my glove! By the by, I fancy that phrase comes + from the custom of pledging a glove as the signal of irrefragable faith— + right, I say, as my glove, Caxon—but we of the Protestant ascendency + have the more merit in doing that duty for nothing, which cost money in + the reign of that empress of superstition, whom Spenser, Caxon, terms in + his allegorical phrase, +</p> +<pre> + —The daughter of that woman blind, + Abessa, daughter of Corecca slow— +</pre> +<p> + But why talk I of these things to thee?—my poor Lovel has spoiled me, + and taught me to speak aloud when it is much the same as speaking to + myself. Where's my nephew, Hector M'Intyre?" +</p> +<p> + "He's in the parlour, sir, wi' the leddies." +</p> +<p> + "Very well," said the Antiquary, "I will betake me thither." +</p> +<p> + "Now, Monkbarns," said his sister, on his entering the parlour, "ye + maunna be angry." +</p> +<p> + "My dear uncle!" began Miss M'Intyre. +</p> +<p> + "What's the meaning of all this?" said Oldbuck, in alarm of some + impending bad news, and arguing upon the supplicating tone of the ladies, + as a fortress apprehends an attack from the very first flourish of the + trumpet which announces the summons—"what's all this?—what do you + bespeak my patience for?" +</p> +<p> + "No particular matter, I should hope, sir," said Hector, who, with his + arm in a sling, was seated at the breakfast table;—"however, whatever it + may amount to I am answerable for it, as I am for much more trouble that + I have occasioned, and for which I have little more than thanks to + offer." +</p> +<p> + "No, no! heartily welcome, heartily welcome—only let it be a warning to + you," said the Antiquary, "against your fits of anger, which is a short + madness—<i>Ira furor brevis</i>—but what is this new disaster?" +</p> +<p> + "My dog, sir, has unfortunately thrown down"— +</p> +<p> + "If it please Heaven, not the lachrymatory from Clochnaben!" interjected + Oldbuck. +</p> +<p> + "Indeed, uncle," said the young lady, "I am afraid—it was that which + stood upon the sideboard—the poor thing only meant to eat the pat of + fresh butter." +</p> +<p> + "In which she has fully succeeded, I presume, for I see that on the table + is salted. But that is nothing—my lachrymatory, the main pillar of my + theory on which I rested to show, in despite of the ignorant obstinacy of + Mac-Cribb, that the Romans had passed the defiles of these mountains, and + left behind them traces of their arts and arms, is gone—annihilated— + reduced to such fragments as might be the shreds of a broken-flowerpot! +</p> +<pre> + —Hector, I love thee, + But never more be officer of mine." +</pre> +<p> + "Why, really, sir, I am afraid I should make a bad figure in a regiment + of your raising." +</p> +<p> + "At least, Hector, I would have you despatch your camp train, and travel + <i>expeditus,</i> or <i>relictis impedimentis.</i> You cannot conceive how I am + annoyed by this beast—she commits burglary, I believe, for I heard her + charged with breaking into the kitchen after all the doors were locked, + and eating up a shoulder of mutton. "—(Our readers, if they chance to + remember Jenny Rintherout's precaution of leaving the door open when she + went down to the fisher's cottage, will probably acquit poor Juno of that + aggravation of guilt which the lawyers call a <i>claustrum fregit,</i> and + which makes the distinction between burglary and privately stealing. ) +</p> +<p> + "I am truly sorry, sir," said Hector, "that Juno has committed so much + disorder; but Jack Muirhead, the breaker, was never able to bring her + under command. She has more travel than any bitch I ever knew, but"— +</p> +<p> + "Then, Hector, I wish the bitch would travel herself out of my grounds." +</p> +<p> + "We will both of us retreat to-morrow, or to-day, but I would not + willingly part from my mother's brother in unkindness about a paltry + pipkin." +</p> +<p> + "O brother! brother!" ejaculated Miss M'Intyre, in utter despair at this + vituperative epithet. +</p> +<p> + "Why, what would you have me call it?" continued Hector; "it was just + such a thing as they use in Egypt to cool wine, or sherbet, or water;—I + brought home a pair of them—I might have brought home twenty." +</p> +<p> + "What!" said Oldbuck, "shaped such as that your dog threw down?" +</p> +<p> + "Yes, sir, much such a sort of earthen jar as that which was on the + sideboard. They are in my lodgings at Fairport; we brought a parcel of + them to cool our wine on the passage—they answer wonderfully well. If I + could think they would in any degree repay your loss, or rather that they + could afford you pleasure, I am sure I should be much honoured by your + accepting them." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed, my dear boy, I should be highly gratified by possessing them. To + trace the connection of nations by their usages, and the similarity of + the implements which they employ, has been long my favourite study. + Everything that can illustrate such connections is most valuable to me." +</p> +<p> + "Well, sir, I shall be much gratified by your acceptance of them, and a + few trifles of the same kind. And now, am I to hope you have forgiven + me?" +</p> +<p> + "O, my dear boy, you are only thoughtless and foolish." +</p> +<p> + "But Juno—she is only thoughtless too, I assure you—the breaker tells + me she has no vice or stubbornness." +</p> +<p> + "Well, I grant Juno also a free pardon—conditioned, that you will + imitate her in avoiding vice and stubbornness, and that henceforward she + banish herself forth of Monkbarns parlour." +</p> +<p> + "Then, uncle," said the soldier, "I should have been very sorry and + ashamed to propose to you anything in the way of expiation of my own + sins, or those of my follower, that I thought <i>worth</i> your acceptance; + but now, as all is forgiven, will you permit the orphan-nephew, to whom + you have been a father, to offer you a trifle, which I have been assured + is really curious, and which only the cross accident of my wound has + prevented my delivering to you before? I got it from a French savant, to + whom I rendered some service after the Alexandria affair." +</p> +<p> + The captain put a small ring-case into the Antiquary's hands, which, when + opened, was found to contain an antique ring of massive gold, with a + cameo, most beautifully executed, bearing a head of Cleopatra. The + Antiquary broke forth into unrepressed ecstasy, shook his nephew + cordially by the hand, thanked him an hundred times, and showed the ring + to his sister and niece, the latter of whom had the tact to give it + sufficient admiration; but Miss Griselda (though she had the same + affection for her nephew) had not address enough to follow the lead. +</p> +<p> + "It's a bonny thing," she said, "Monkbarns, and, I dare say, a valuable; + but it's out o'my way—ye ken I am nae judge o' sic matters." +</p> +<p> + "There spoke all Fairport in one voice!" exclaimed Oldbuck "it is the + very spirit of the borough has infected us all; I think I have smelled + the smoke these two days, that the wind has stuck, like a <i>remora,</i> in + the north-east—and its prejudices fly farther than its vapours. Believe + me, my dear Hector, were I to walk up the High Street of Fairport, + displaying this inestimable gem in the eyes of each one I met, no human + creature, from the provost to the town-crier, would stop to ask me its + history. But if I carried a bale of linen cloth under my arm, I could not + penetrate to the Horsemarket ere I should be overwhelmed with queries + about its precise texture and price. Oh, one might parody their brutal + ignorance in the words of Gray: +</p> +<pre> + Weave the warp and weave the woof, + The winding-sheet of wit and sense, + Dull garment of defensive proof, + 'Gainst all that doth not gather pence." +</pre> +<p> + The most remarkable proof of this peace-offering being quite acceptable + was, that while the Antiquary was in full declamation, Juno, who held him + in awe, according to the remarkable instinct by which dogs instantly + discover those who like or dislike them, had peeped several times into + the room, and encountering nothing very forbidding in his aspect, had at + length presumed to introduce her full person; and finally, becoming bold + by impunity, she actually ate up Mr. Oldbuck's toast, as, looking first + at one then at another of his audience, he repeated, with + self-complacency, +</p> +<pre> + "Weave the warp and weave the woof,— +</pre> +<p> + "You remember the passage in the Fatal Sisters, which, by the way, is not + so fine as in the original—But, hey-day! my toast has vanished!—I see + which way—Ah, thou type of womankind! no wonder they take offence at thy + generic appellation!"—(So saying, he shook his fist at Juno, who scoured + out of the parlour.)—"However, as Jupiter, according to Homer, could not + rule Juno in heaven, and as Jack Muirhead, according to Hector M'Intyre, + has been equally unsuccessful on earth, I suppose she must have her own + way." And this mild censure the brother and sister justly accounted a + full pardon for Juno's offences, and sate down well pleased to the + morning meal. +</p> +<p> + When breakfast was over, the Antiquary proposed to his nephew to go down + with him to attend the funeral. The soldier pleaded the want of a + mourning habit. +</p> +<p> + "O, that does not signify—your presence is all that is requisite. I + assure you, you will see something that will entertain—no, that's an + improper phrase—but that will interest you, from the resemblances which + I will point out betwixt popular customs on such occasions and those of + the ancients." +</p> +<p> + "Heaven forgive me!" thought M'Intyre;—"I shall certainly misbehave, and + lose all the credit I have so lately and accidentally gained." +</p> +<p> + When they set out, schooled as he was by the warning and entreating looks + of his sister, the soldier made his resolution strong to give no offence + by evincing inattention or impatience. But our best resolutions are + frail, when opposed to our predominant inclinations. Our Antiquary,—to + leave nothing unexplained, had commenced with the funeral rites of the + ancient Scandinavians, when his nephew interrupted him, in a discussion + upon the "age of hills," to remark that a large sea-gull, which flitted + around them, had come twice within shot. This error being acknowledged + and pardoned, Oldbuck resumed his disquisition. +</p> +<p> + "These are circumstances you ought to attend to and be familiar with, my + dear Hector; for, in the strange contingencies of the present war which + agitates every corner of Europe, there is no knowing where you may be + called upon to serve. If in Norway, for example, or Denmark, or any part + of the ancient Scania, or Scandinavia, as we term it, what could be more + convenient than to have at your fingers' ends the history and antiquities + of that ancient country, the <i>officina gentium,</i> the mother of modern + Europe, the nursery of those heroes, +</p> +<pre> + Stern to inflict, and stubborn to endure, + Who smiled in death?— +</pre> +<p> + How animating, for example, at the conclusion of a weary march, to find + yourself in the vicinity of a Runic monument, and discover that you have + pitched your tent beside the tomb of a hero!" +</p> +<p> + "I am afraid, sir, our mess would be better supplied if it chanced to be + in the neighbourhood of a good poultry-yard." +</p> +<p> + "Alas, that you should say so! No wonder the days of Cressy and Agincourt + are no more, when respect for ancient valour has died away in the breasts + of the British soldiery." +</p> +<p> + "By no means, sir—by no manner of means. I dare say that Edward and + Henry, and the rest of these heroes, thought of their dinner, however, + before they thought of examining an old tombstone. But I assure you, we + are by no means insensible to the memoir of our fathers' fame; I used + often of an evening to get old Rory MAlpin to sing us songs out of Ossian + about the battles of Fingal and Lamon Mor, and Magnus and the Spirit of + Muirartach." +</p> +<p> + "And did you believe," asked the aroused Antiquary, "did you absolutely + believe that stuff of Macpherson's to be really ancient, you simple boy?" +</p> +<p> + "Believe it, sir?—how could I but believe it, when I have heard the + songs sung from my infancy?" +</p> +<p> + "But not the same as Macpherson's English Ossian—you're not absurd + enough to say that, I hope?" said the Antiquary, his brow darkening with + wrath. +</p> +<p> + But Hector stoutly abode the storm; like many a sturdy Celt, he imagined + the honour of his country and native language connected with the + authenticity of these popular poems, and would have fought knee-deep, or + forfeited life and land, rather than have given up a line of them. He + therefore undauntedly maintained, that Rory MAlpin could repeat the whole + book from one end to another;—and it was only upon cross-examination + that he explained an assertion so general, by adding "At least, if he was + allowed whisky enough, he could repeat as long as anybody would hearken + to him." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, ay," said the Antiquary; "and that, I suppose, was not very long." +</p> +<p> + "Why, we had our duty, sir, to attend to, and could not sit listening all + night to a piper." +</p> +<p> + "But do you recollect, now," said Oldbuck, setting his teeth firmly + together, and speaking without opening them, which was his custom when + contradicted—"Do you recollect, now, any of these verses you thought so + beautiful and interesting—being a capital judge, no doubt, of such + things?" +</p> +<p> + "I don't pretend to much skill, uncle; but it's not very reasonable to be + angry with me for admiring the antiquities of my own country more than + those of the Harolds, Harfagers, and Hacos you are so fond of." +</p> +<p> + "Why, these, sir—these mighty and unconquered Goths—<i>were</i> your + ancestors! The bare-breeched Celts whom theysubdued, and suffered only to + exist, like a fearful people, in the crevices of the rocks, were but + their Mancipia and Serfs!" +</p> +<p> + Hector's brow now grew red in his turn. "Sir," he said, "I don't + understand the meaning of Mancipia and Serfs, but I conceive that such + names are very improperly applied to Scotch Highlanders: no man but my + mother's brother dared to have used such language in my presence; and I + pray you will observe, that I consider it as neither hospitable, + handsome, kind, nor generous usage towards your guest and your kinsman. + My ancestors, Mr. Oldbuck"— +</p> +<p> + "Were great and gallant chiefs, I dare say, Hector; and really I did not + mean to give you such immense offence in treating a point of remote + antiquity, a subject on which I always am myself cool, deliberate, and + unimpassioned. But you are as hot and hasty, as if you were Hector and + Achilles, and Agamemnon to boot." +</p> +<p> + "I am sorry I expressed myself so hastily, uncle, especially to you, who + have been so generous and good. But my ancestors"— +</p> +<p> + "No more about it, lad; I meant them no affront—none." +</p> +<p> + "I'm glad of it, sir; for the house of M'Intyre"— +</p> +<p> + "Peace be with them all, every man of them," said the Antiquary. "But to + return to our subject—Do you recollect, I say, any of those poems which + afforded you such amusement?" +</p> +<p> + "Very hard this," thought M'Intyre, "that he will speak with such glee of + everything which is ancient, excepting my family. "—Then, after some + efforts at recollection, he added aloud, "Yes, sir,—I think I do + remember some lines; but you do not understand the Gaelic language." +</p> +<p> + "And will readily excuse hearing it. But you can give me some idea of the + sense in our own vernacular idiom?" +</p> +<p> + "I shall prove a wretched interpreter," said M'Intyre, running over the + original, well garnished with <i>aghes, aughs,</i> and <i>oughs,</i> and similar + gutterals, and then coughing and hawking as if the translation stuck in + his throat. At length, having premised that the poem was a dialogue + between the poet Oisin, or Ossian, and Patrick, the tutelar Saint of + Ireland, and that it was difficult, if not impossible, to render the + exquisite felicity of the first two or three lines, he said the sense was + to this purpose: +</p> +<pre> + "Patrick the psalm-singer, + Since you will not listen to one of my stories, + Though you never heard it before, + I am sorry to tell you + You are little better than an ass"— +</pre> +<p> + "Good! good!" exclaimed the Antiquary; "but go on. Why, this is, after + all, the most admirable fooling—I dare say the poet was very right. What + says the Saint?" +</p> +<p> + "He replies in character," said M'Intyre; "but you should hear MAlpin + sing the original. The speeches of Ossian come in upon a strong deep + bass—those of Patrick are upon a tenor key." +</p> +<p> + "Like MAlpin's drone and small pipes, I suppose," said Oldbuck. "Well? + Pray go on." +</p> +<p> + "Well then, Patrick replies to Ossian: +</p> +<pre> + Upon my word, son of Fingal, + While I am warbling the psalms, + The clamour of your old women's tales + Disturbs my devotional exercises." +</pre> +<p> + "Excellent!—why, this is better and better. I hope Saint Patrick sung + better than Blattergowl's precentor, or it would be hang—choice between + the poet and psalmist. But what I admire is the courtesy of these two + eminent persons towards each other. It is a pity there should not be a + word of this in Macpherson's translation." +</p> +<p> + "If you are sure of that," said M'Intyre, gravely, "he must have taken + very unwarrantable liberties with his original." +</p> +<p> + "It will go near to be thought so shortly—but pray proceed." +</p> +<p> + "Then," said M'Intyre, "this is the answer of Ossian: +</p> +<pre> + Dare you compare your psalms, + You son of a—" +</pre> +<p> + "Son of a what?" exclaimed Oldbuck. +</p> +<p> + "It means, I think," said the young soldier, with some reluctance, "son + of a female dog: +</p> +<pre> + Do you compare your psalms, + To the tales of the bare-arm'd Fenians" +</pre> +<p> + "Are you sure you are translating that last epithet correctly, Hector?" +</p> +<p> + "Quite sure, sir," answered Hector, doggedly. +</p> +<p> + "Because I should have thought the nudity might have been quoted as + existing in a different part of the body." +</p> +<p> + Disdaining to reply to this insinuation, Hector proceeded in his + recitation: +</p> +<pre> + "I shall think it no great harm + To wring your bald head from your shoulders— +</pre> +<p> + But what is that yonder?" exclaimed Hector, interrupting himself. +</p> +<p> + "One of the herd of Proteus," said the Antiquary—"a <i>phoca,</i> or seal, + lying asleep on the beach." +</p> +<p> + Upon which M'Intyre, with the eagerness of a young sportsman, totally + forgot both Ossian, Patrick, his uncle, and his wound, and exclaiming—"I + shall have her! I shall have her!" snatched the walking-stick out of the + hand of the astonished Antiquary, at some risk of throwing him down, and + set off at full speed to get between the animal and the sea, to which + element, having caught the alarm, she was rapidly retreating. +</p> +<p> + Not Sancho, when his master interrupted his account of the combatants of + Pentapolin with the naked arm, to advance in person to the charge of the + flock of sheep, stood more confounded than Oldbuck at this sudden + escapade of his nephew. +</p> +<p> + "Is the devil in him," was his first exclamation, "to go to disturb the + brute that was never thinking of him!"—Then elevating his voice, + "Hector—nephew—fool—let alone the <i>Phoca</i>—let alone the <i>Phoca</i>!— + they bite, I tell you, like furies. He minds me no more than a post. + There—there they are at it—Gad, the <i>Phoca</i> has the best of it! I am + glad to see it," said he, in the bitterness of his heart, though really + alarmed for his nephew's safety—"I am glad to see it, with all my heart + and spirit." +</p> +<p> + In truth, the seal, finding her retreat intercepted by the light-footed + soldier, confronted him manfully, and having sustained a heavy blow + without injury, she knitted her brows, as is the fashion of the animal + when incensed, and making use at once of her fore-paws and her unwieldy + strength, wrenched the weapon out of the assailant's hand, overturned him + on the sands, and scuttled away into the sea, without doing him any + farther injury. Captain M'Intyre, a good deal out of countenance at the + issue of his exploit, just rose in time to receive the ironical + congratulations of his uncle, upon a single combat worthy to be + commemorated by Ossian himself, "since," said the Antiquary, "your + magnanimous opponent has fled, though not upon eagle's wings, from the + foe that was low—Egad, she walloped away with all the grace of triumph, + and has carried my stick off also, by way of <i>spolia opima.</i>" +</p> +<p> + M'Intyre had little to answer for himself, except that a Highlander could + never pass a deer, a seal, or a salmon, where there was a possibility of + having a trial of skill with them, and that he had forgot one of his arms + was in a sling. He also made his fall an apology for returning back to + Monkbarns, and thus escape the farther raillery of his uncle, as well as + his lamentations for his walking-stick. +</p> +<p> + "I cut it," he said, "in the classic woods of Hawthornden, when I did not + expect always to have been a bachelor—I would not have given it for an + ocean of seals—O Hector! Hector!—thy namesake was born to be the prop + of Troy, and thou to be the plague of Monkbarns!" +</p> +<a name="2HCH0010"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER TENTH. +</h2> +<pre> + Tell me not of it, friend—when the young weep, + Their tears are luke-warm brine;—from your old eyes + Sorrow falls down like hail-drops of the North, + Chilling the furrows of our withered cheeks, + Cold as our hopes, and hardened as our feeling— + Theirs, as they fall, sink sightless—ours recoil, + Heap the fair plain, and bleaken all before us. + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + The Antiquary, being now alone, hastened his pace, which had been + retarded by these various discussions, and the rencontre which had closed + them, and soon arrived before the half-dozen cottages at Mussel-crag. + They had now, in addition to their usual squalid and uncomfortable + appearance, the melancholy attributes of the house of mourning. The boats + were all drawn up on the beach; and, though the day was fine, and the + season favourable, the chant, which is used by the fishers when at sea, + was silent, as well as the prattle of the children, and the shrill song + of the mother, as she sits mending her nets by the door. A few of the + neighbours, some in their antique and well-saved suits of black, others + in their ordinary clothes, but all bearing an expression of mournful + sympathy with distress so sudden and unexpected, stood gathered around + the door of Mucklebackit's cottage, waiting till "the body was lifted." + As the Laird of Monkbarns approached, they made way for him to enter, + doffing their hats and bonnets as he passed, with an air of melancholy + courtesy, and he returned their salutes in the same manner. +</p> +<p> + In the inside of the cottage was a scene which our Wilkie alone could + have painted, with that exquisite feeling of nature that characterises + his enchanting productions, +</p> +<p> + The body was laid in its coffin within the wooden bedstead which the + young fisher had occupied while alive. At a little distance stood the + father, whose rugged weather-beaten countenance, shaded by his grizzled + hair, had faced many a stormy night and night-like day. He was apparently + revolving his loss in his mind, with that strong feeling of painful grief + peculiar to harsh and rough characters, which almost breaks forth into + hatred against the world, and all that remain in it, after the beloved + object is withdrawn. The old man had made the most desperate efforts to + save his son, and had only been withheld by main force from renewing them + at a moment when, without the possibility of assisting the sufferer, he + must himself have perished. All this apparently was boiling in his + recollection. His glance was directed sidelong towards the coffin, as to + an object on which he could not stedfastly look, and yet from which he + could not withdraw his eyes. His answers to the necessary questions which + were occasionally put to him, were brief, harsh, and almost fierce. His + family had not yet dared to address to him a word, either of sympathy or + consolation. His masculine wife, virago as she was, and absolute mistress + of the family, as she justly boasted herself, on all ordinary occasions, + was, by this great loss, terrified into silence and submission, and + compelled to hide from her husband's observation the bursts of her female + sorrow. As he had rejected food ever since the disaster had happened, not + daring herself to approach him, she had that morning, with affectionate + artifice, employed the youngest and favourite child to present her + husband with some nourishment. His first action was to put it from him + with an angry violence that frightened the child; his next, to snatch up + the boy and devour him with kisses. "Yell be a bra' fallow, an ye be + spared, Patie,—but ye'll never—never can be—what he was to me!—He has + sailed the coble wi' me since he was ten years auld, and there wasna the + like o' him drew a net betwixt this and Buchan-ness.—They say folks maun + submit—I will try." +</p> +<p> + And he had been silent from that moment until compelled to answer the + necessary questions we have already noticed. Such was the disconsolate + state of the father. +</p> +<p> + In another corner of the cottage, her face covered by her apron, which + was flung over it, sat the mother—the nature of her grief sufficiently + indicated by the wringing of her hands, and the convulsive agitation of + the bosom, which the covering could not conceal. Two of her gossips, + officiously whispering into her ear the commonplace topic of resignation + under irremediable misfortune, seemed as if they were endeavouring to + stun the grief which they could not console. +</p> +<p> + The sorrow of the children was mingled with wonder at the preparations + they beheld around them, and at the unusual display of wheaten bread and + wine, which the poorest peasant, or fisher, offers to the guests on these + mournful occasions; and thus their grief for their brother's death was + almost already lost in admiration of the splendour of his funeral. +</p> +<p> + But the figure of the old grandmother was the most remarkable of the + sorrowing group. Seated on her accustomed chair, with her usual air of + apathy, and want of interest in what surrounded her, she seemed every now + and then mechanically to resume the motion of twirling her spindle; then + to look towards her bosom for the distaff, although both had been laid + aside. She would then cast her eyes about, as if surprised at missing the + usual implements of her industry, and appear struck by the black colour + of the gown in which they had dressed her, and embarrassed by the number + of persons by whom she was surrounded. Then, finally, she would raise her + head with a ghastly look, and fix her eyes upon the bed which contained + the coffin of her grandson, as if she had at once, and for the first + time, acquired sense to comprehend her inexpressible calamity. These + alternate feelings of embarrassment, wonder, and grief, seemed to succeed + each other more than once upon her torpid features. But she spoke not a + word—neither had she shed a tear—nor did one of the family understand, + either from look or expression, to what extent she comprehended the + uncommon bustle around her. Thus she sat among the funeral assembly like + a connecting link between the surviving mourners and the dead corpse + which they bewailed—a being in whom the light of existence was already + obscured by the encroaching shadows of death. +</p> +<p> + When Oldbuck entered this house of mourning, he was received by a general + and silent inclination of the head, and, according to the fashion of + Scotland on such occasions, wine and spirits and bread were offered round + to the guests. Elspeth, as these refreshments were presented, surprised + and startled the whole company by motioning to the person who bore them + to stop; then, taking a glass in her hand, she rose up, and, as the smile + of dotage played upon her shrivelled features, she pronounced, with a + hollow and tremulous voice, "Wishing a' your healths, sirs, and often may + we hae such merry meetings!" +</p> +<p> + All shrunk from the ominous pledge, and set down the untasted liquor with + a degree of shuddering horror, which will not surprise those who know how + many superstitions are still common on such occasions among the Scottish + vulgar. But as the old woman tasted the liquor, she suddenly exclaimed + with a sort of shriek, "What's this?—this is wine—how should there be + wine in my son's house?—Ay," she continued with a suppressed groan, "I + mind the sorrowful cause now," and, dropping the glass from her hand, she + stood a moment gazing fixedly on the bed in which the coffin of her + grandson was deposited, and then sinking gradually into her seat, she + covered her eyes and forehead with her withered and pallid hand. +</p> +<p> + At this moment the clergyman entered the cottage. Mr. Blattergowl, though + a dreadful proser, particularly on the subject of augmentations, + localities, teinds, and overtures in that session of the General + Assembly, to which, unfortunately for his auditors, he chanced one year + to act as moderator, was nevertheless a good man, in the old Scottish + presbyterian phrase, God-ward and man-ward. No divine was more attentive + in visiting the sick and afflicted, in catechising the youth, in + instructing the ignorant, and in reproving the erring. And hence, + notwithstanding impatience of his prolixity and prejudices, personal or + professional, and notwithstanding, moreover, a certain habitual contempt + for his understanding, especially on affairs of genius and taste, on + which Blattergowl was apt to be diffuse, from his hope of one day + fighting his way to a chair of rhetoric or belles lettres,— + notwithstanding, I say, all the prejudices excited against him by these + circumstances, our friend the Antiquary looked with great regard and + respect on the said Blattergowl, though I own he could seldom, even by + his sense of decency and the remonstrances of his womankind, be <i>hounded + out,</i> as he called it, to hear him preach. But he regularly took shame to + himself for his absence when Blattergowl came to Monkbarns to dinner, to + which he was always invited of a Sunday, a mode of testifying his respect + which the proprietor probably thought fully as agreeable to the + clergyman, and rather more congenial to his own habits. +</p> +<p> + To return from a digression which can only serve to introduce the honest + clergyman more particularly to our readers, Mr. Blattergowl had no sooner + entered the hut, and received the mute and melancholy salutations of the + company whom it contained, than he edged himself towards the unfortunate + father, and seemed to endeavour to slide in a few words of condolence or + of consolation. But the old man was incapable as yet of receiving either; + he nodded, however, gruffly, and shook the clergyman's hand in + acknowledgment of his good intentions, but was either unable or unwilling + to make any verbal reply. +</p> +<p> + The minister next passed to the mother, moving along the floor as slowly, + silently, and gradually, as if he had been afraid that the ground would, + like unsafe ice, break beneath his feet, or that the first echo of a + footstep was to dissolve some magic spell, and plunge the hut, with all + its inmates, into a subterranean abyss. The tenor of what he had said to + the poor woman could only be judged by her answers, as, half-stifled by + sobs ill-repressed, and by the covering which she still kept over her + countenance, she faintly answered at each pause in his speech—"Yes, sir, + yes!—Ye're very gude—ye're very gude!—Nae doubt, nae doubt!—It's our + duty to submit!—But, oh dear! my poor Steenie! the pride o' my very + heart, that was sae handsome and comely, and a help to his family, and a + comfort to us a', and a pleasure to a' that lookit on him!—Oh, my bairn! + my bairn! my bairn! what for is thou lying there!—and eh! what for am I + left to greet for ye!" +</p> +<p> + There was no contending with this burst of sorrow and natural affection. + Oldbuck had repeated recourse to his snuff-box to conceal the tears + which, despite his shrewd and caustic temper, were apt to start on such + occasions. The female assistants whimpered, the men held their bonnets to + their faces, and spoke apart with each other. The clergyman, meantime, + addressed his ghostly consolation to the aged grandmother. At first she + listened, or seemed to listen, to what he said, with the apathy of her + usual unconsciousness. But as, in pressing this theme, he approached so + near to her ear that the sense of his words became distinctly + intelligible to her, though unheard by those who stood more distant, her + countenance at once assumed that stern and expressive cast which + characterized her intervals of intelligence. She drew up her head and + body, shook her head in a manner that showed at least impatience, if not + scorn of his counsel, and waved her hand slightly, but with a gesture so + expressive, as to indicate to all who witnessed it a marked and + disdainful rejection of the ghostly consolation proffered to her. The + minister stepped back as if repulsed, and, by lifting gently and dropping + his hand, seemed to show at once wonder, sorrow, and compassion for her + dreadful state of mind. The rest of the company sympathized, and a + stifled whisper went through them, indicating how much her desperate and + determined manner impressed them with awe, and even horror. +</p> +<p> + In the meantime, the funeral company was completed, by the arrival of one + or two persons who had been expected from Fairport. The wine and spirits + again circulated, and the dumb show of greeting was anew interchanged. + The grandame a second time took a glass in her hand, drank its contents, + and exclaimed, with a sort of laugh,—"Ha! ha! I hae tasted wine twice in + ae day—Whan did I that before, think ye, cummers?—Never since"—and the + transient glow vanishing from her countenance, she set the glass down, + and sunk upon the settle from whence she had risen to snatch at it. +</p> +<p> + As the general amazement subsided, Mr. Oldbuck, whose heart bled to + witness what he considered as the errings of the enfeebled intellect + struggling with the torpid chill of age and of sorrow, observed to the + clergyman that it was time to proceed with the ceremony. The father was + incapable of giving directions, but the nearest relation of the family + made a sign to the carpenter, who in such cases goes through the duty of + the undertaker, to proceed in his office. The creak of the screw-nails + presently announced that the lid of the last mansion of mortality was in + the act of being secured above its tenant. The last act which separates + us for ever, even from the mortal relies of the person we assemble to + mourn, has usually its effect upon the most indifferent, selfish, and + hard-hearted. With a spirit of contradiction, which we may be pardoned + for esteeming narrow-minded, the fathers of the Scottish kirk rejected, + even on this most solemn occasion, the form of an address to the + Divinity, lest they should be thought to give countenance to the rituals + of Rome or of England. With much better and more liberal judgment, it is + the present practice of most of the Scottish clergymen to seize this + opportunity of offering a prayer, and exhortation, suitable to make an + impression upon the living, while they are yet in the very presence of + the relics of him whom they have but lately seen such as they themselves, + and who now is such as they must in their time become. But this decent + and praiseworthy practice was not adopted at the time of which I am + treating, or at least, Mr. Blattergowl did not act upon it, and the + ceremony proceeded without any devotional exercise. +</p> +<p> + The coffin, covered with a pall, and supported upon hand-spikes by the + nearest relatives, now only waited the father to support the head, as is + customary. Two or three of these privileged persons spoke to him, but he + only answered by shaking his hand and his head in token of refusal. With + better intention than judgment, the friends, who considered this as an + act of duty on the part of the living, and of decency towards the + deceased, would have proceeded to enforce their request, had not Oldbuck + interfered between the distressed father and his well-meaning tormentors, + and informed them, that he himself, as landlord and master to the + deceased, "would carry his head to the grave." In spite of the sorrowful + occasion, the hearts of the relatives swelled within them at so marked a + distinction on the part of the laird; and old Alison Breck, who was + present among other fish-women, swore almost aloud, "His honour Monkbarns + should never want sax warp of oysters in the season" (of which fish he + was understood to be fond), "if she should gang to sea and dredge for + them hersell, in the foulest wind that ever blew." And such is the temper + of the Scottish common people, that, by this instance of compliance with + their customs, and respect for their persons, Mr. Oldbuck gained more + popularity than by all the sums which he had yearly distributed in the + parish for purposes of private or general charity. +</p> +<p> + The sad procession now moved slowly forward, preceded by the beadles, or + saulies, with their batons,—miserable-looking old men, tottering as if + on the edge of that grave to which they were marshalling another, and + clad, according to Scottish guise, with threadbare black coats, and + hunting-caps decorated with rusty crape. Monkbarns would probably have + remonstrated against this superfluous expense, had he been consulted; + but, in doing so, he would have given more offence than he gained + popularity by condescending to perform the office of chief-mourner. Of + this he was quite aware, and wisely withheld rebuke, where rebuke and + advice would have been equally unavailing. In truth, the Scottish + peasantry are still infected with that rage for funeral ceremonial, which + once distinguished the grandees of the kingdom so much, that a sumptuary + law was made by the Parliament of Scotland for the purpose of restraining + it; and I have known many in the lowest stations, who have denied + themselves not merely the comforts, but almost the necessaries of life, + in order to save such a sum of money as might enable their surviving + friends to bury them like Christians, as they termed it; nor could their + faithful executors be prevailed upon, though equally necessitous, to turn + to the use and maintenance of the living the money vainly wasted upon the + interment of the dead. +</p> +<p> + The procession to the churchyard, at about half-a-mile's distance, was + made with the mournful solemnity usual on these occasions,—the body was + consigned to its parent earth,—and when the labour of the gravediggers + had filled up the trench, and covered it with fresh sod, Mr. Oldbuck, + taking his hat off, saluted the assistants, who had stood by in + melancholy silence, and with that adieu dispersed the mourners. +</p> +<p> + The clergyman offered our Antiquary his company to walk homeward; but Mr. + Oldbuck had been so much struck with the deportment of the fisherman and + his mother, that, moved by compassion, and perhaps also, in some degree, + by that curiosity which induces us to seek out even what gives us pain to + witness, he preferred a solitary walk by the coast, for the purpose of + again visiting the cottage as he passed. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0011"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER ELEVENTH +</h2> +<pre> + What is this secret sin, this untold tale, + That art cannot extract, nor penance cleanse? + —Her muscles hold their place; + Nor discomposed, nor formed to steadiness, + No sudden flushing, and no faltering lip.— + Mysterious Mother. +</pre> +<p> + The coffin had been borne from the place where it rested. The mourners, + in regular gradation, according to their rank or their relationship to + the deceased, had filed from the cottage, while the younger male children + were led along to totter after the bier of their brother, and to view + with wonder a ceremonial which they could hardly comprehend. The female + gossips next rose to depart, and, with consideration for the situation of + the parents, carried along with them the girls of the family, to give the + unhappy pair time and opportunity to open their hearts to each other and + soften their grief by communicating it. But their kind intention was + without effect. The last of them had darkened the entrance of the + cottage, as she went out, and drawn the door softly behind her, when the + father, first ascertaining by a hasty glance that no stranger remained, + started up, clasped his hands wildly above his head, uttered a cry of the + despair which he had hitherto repressed, and, in all the impotent + impatience of grief, half rushed half staggered forward to the bed on + which the coffin had been deposited, threw himself down upon it, and + smothering, as it were, his head among the bed-clothes, gave vent to the + full passion of his sorrow. It was in vain that the wretched mother, + terrified by the vehemence of her husband's affliction—affliction still + more fearful as agitating a man of hardened manners and a robust frame— + suppressed her own sobs and tears, and, pulling him by the skirts of his + coat, implored him to rise and remember, that, though one was removed, he + had still a wife and children to comfort and support. The appeal came at + too early a period of his anguish, and was totally unattended to; he + continued to remain prostrate, indicating, by sobs so bitter and violent, + that they shook the bed and partition against which it rested, by + clenched hands which grasped the bed-clothes, and by the vehement and + convulsive motion of his legs, how deep and how terrible was the agony of + a father's sorrow. +</p> +<p> + "O, what a day is this! what a day is this!" said the poor mother, her + womanish affliction already exhausted by sobs and tears, and now almost + lost in terror for the state in which she beheld her husband—"O, what an + hour is this! and naebody to help a poor lone woman—O, gudemither, could + ye but speak a word to him!—wad ye but bid him be comforted!" +</p> +<p> + To her astonishment, and even to the increase of her fear, her husband's + mother heard and answered the appeal. She rose and walked across the + floor without support, and without much apparent feebleness, and standing + by the bed on which her son had extended himself, she said, "Rise up, my + son, and sorrow not for him that is beyond sin and sorrow and temptation. + Sorrow is for those that remain in this vale of sorrow and darkness—I, + wha dinna sorrow, and wha canna sorrow for ony ane, hae maist need that + ye should a' sorrow for me." +</p> +<p> + The voice of his mother, not heard for years as taking part in the active + duties of life, or offering advice or consolation, produced its effect + upon her son. He assumed a sitting posture on the side of the bed, and + his appearance, attitude, and gestures, changed from those of angry + despair to deep grief and dejection. The grandmother retired to her nook, + the mother mechanically took in her hand her tattered Bible, and seemed + to read, though her eyes were drowned with tears. +</p> +<p> + They were thus occupied, when a loud knock was heard at the door. +</p> +<p> + "Hegh, sirs!" said the poor mother, "wha is that can be coming in that + gate e'enow?—They canna hae heard o' our misfortune, I'm sure." +</p> +<p> + The knock being repeated, she rose and opened the door, saying + querulously, "Whatna gait's that to disturb a sorrowfu' house?" +</p> +<p> + A tall man in black stood before her, whom she instantly recognised to be + Lord Glenallan. "Is there not," he said, "an old woman lodging in this or + one of the neighbouring cottages, called Elspeth, who was long resident + at Craigburnfoot of Glenallan?" +</p> +<p> + "It's my gudemither, my lord," said Margaret; "but she canna see onybody + e'enow—Ohon! we're dreeing a sair weird—we hae had a heavy + dispensation!" +</p> +<p> + "God forbid," said Lord Glenallan, "that I should on light occasion + disturb your sorrow;—but my days are numbered—your mother-in-law is in + the extremity of age, and, if I see her not to-day, we may never meet on + this side of time." +</p> +<p> + "And what," answered the desolate mother, "wad ye see at an auld woman, + broken down wi' age and sorrow and heartbreak? Gentle or semple shall not + darken my door the day my bairn's been carried out a corpse." +</p> +<p> + While she spoke thus, indulging the natural irritability of disposition + and profession, which began to mingle itself with her grief when its + first uncontrolled bursts were gone by, she held the door about one-third + part open, and placed herself in the gap, as if to render the visitor's + entrance impossible. But the voice of her husband was heard from within— + "Wha's that, Maggie? what for are ye steaking them out?—let them come + in; it doesna signify an auld rope's end wha comes in or wha gaes out o' + this house frae this time forward." +</p> +<p> + The woman stood aside at her husband's command, and permitted Lord + Glenallan to enter the hut. The dejection exhibited in his broken frame + and emaciated countenance, formed a strong contrast with the effects of + grief, as they were displayed in the rude and weatherbeaten visage of the + fisherman, and the masculine features of his wife. He approached the old + woman as she was seated on her usual settle, and asked her, in a tone as + audible as his voice could make it, "Are you Elspeth of the Craigburnfoot + of Glenallan?" +</p> +<p> + "Wha is it that asks about the unhallowed residence of that evil woman?" + was the answer returned to his query. +</p> +<p> + "The unhappy Earl of Glenallan." +</p> +<p> + "Earl!—Earl of Glenallan!" +</p> +<p> + "He who was called William Lord Geraldin," said the Earl; "and whom his + mother's death has made Earl of Glenallan." +</p> +<p> + "Open the bole," said the old woman firmly and hastily to her + daughter-in-law, "open the bole wi' speed, that I may see if this be the + right Lord Geraldin—the son of my mistress—him that I received in my + arms within the hour after he was born—him that has reason to curse me + that I didna smother him before the hour was past!" +</p> +<p> + The window, which had been shut in order that a gloomy twilight might add + to the solemnity of the funeral meeting, was opened as she commanded, and + threw a sudden and strong light through the smoky and misty atmosphere of + the stifling cabin. Falling in a stream upon the chimney, the rays + illuminated, in the way that Rembrandt would have chosen, the features of + the unfortunate nobleman, and those of the old sibyl, who now, standing + upon her feet, and holding him by one hand, peered anxiously in his + features with her light-blue eyes, and holding her long and withered + fore-finger within a small distance of his face, moved it slowly as if to + trace the outlines and reconcile what she recollected with that she now + beheld. As she finished her scrutiny, she said, with a deep sigh, "It's a + sair—sair change; and wha's fault is it?—but that's written down where + it will be remembered—it's written on tablets of brass with a pen of + steel, where all is recorded that is done in the flesh.—And what," she + said after a pause, "what is Lord Geraldin seeking from a poor auld + creature like me, that's dead already, and only belongs sae far to the + living that she isna yet laid in the moulds?" +</p> +<p> + "Nay," answered Lord Glenallan, "in the name of Heaven, why was it that + you requested so urgently to see me?—and why did you back your request + by sending a token which you knew well I dared not refuse?" +</p> +<p> + As he spoke thus, he took from his purse the ring which Edie Ochiltree + had delivered to him at Glenallan House. The sight of this token produced + a strange and instantaneous effect upon the old woman. The palsy of fear + was immediately added to that of age, and she began instantly to search + her pockets with the tremulous and hasty agitation of one who becomes + first apprehensive of having lost something of great importance;—then, + as if convinced of the reality of her fears, she turned to the Earl, and + demanded, "And how came ye by it then?—how came ye by it? I thought I + had kept it sae securely—what will the Countess say?" +</p> +<p> + "You know," said the Earl, "at least you must have heard, that my mother + is dead." +</p> +<p> + "Dead! are ye no imposing upon me? has she left a' at last, lands and + lordship and lineages?" +</p> +<p> + "All, all," said the Earl, "as mortals must leave all human vanities." +</p> +<p> + "I mind now," answered Elspeth—"I heard of it before but there has been + sic distress in our house since, and my memory is sae muckle impaired— + But ye are sure your mother, the Lady Countess, is gane hame?" +</p> +<p> + The Earl again assured her that her former mistress was no more. +</p> +<p> + "Then," said Elspeth, "it shall burden my mind nae langer!—When she + lived, wha dared to speak what it would hae displeased her to hae had + noised abroad? But she's gane—and I will confess all." +</p> +<p> + Then turning to her son and daughter-in-law, she commanded them + imperatively to quit the house, and leave Lord Geraldin (for so she still + called him) alone with her. But Maggie Mucklebackit, her first burst of + grief being over, was by no means disposed in her own house to pay + passive obedience to the commands of her mother-in-law, an authority + which is peculiarly obnoxious to persons in her rank of life, and which + she was the more astonished at hearing revived, when it seemed to have + been so long relinquished and forgotten. +</p> +<p> + "It was an unco thing," she said, in a grumbling tone of voice,—for the + rank of Lord Glenallan was somewhat imposing—"it was an unco thing to + bid a mother leave her ain house wi' the tear in her ee, the moment her + eldest son had been carried a corpse out at the door o't." +</p> +<p> + The fisherman, in a stubborn and sullen tone, added to the same purpose. + "This is nae day for your auld-warld stories, mother. My lord, if he be a + lord, may ca' some other day—or he may speak out what he has gotten to + say if he likes it; there's nane here will think it worth their while to + listen to him or you either. But neither for laird or loon, gentle or + semple, will I leave my ain house to pleasure onybody on the very day my + poor"— +</p> +<p> + Here his voice choked, and he could proceed no farther; but as he had + risen when Lord Glenallan came in, and had since remained standing, he + now threw himself doggedly upon a seat, and remained in the sullen + posture of one who was determined to keep his word. +</p> +<p> + But the old woman, whom this crisis seemed to repossess in all those + powers of mental superiority with which she had once been eminently + gifted, arose, and advancing towards him, said, with a solemn voice, "My + son, as ye wad shun hearing of your mother's shame—as ye wad not + willingly be a witness of her guilt—as ye wad deserve her blessing and + avoid her curse, I charge ye, by the body that bore and that nursed ye, + to leave me at freedom to speak with Lord Geraldin, what nae mortal ears + but his ain maun listen to. Obey my words, that when ye lay the moulds on + my head—and, oh that the day were come!—ye may remember this hour + without the reproach of having disobeyed the last earthly command that + ever your mother wared on you." +</p> +<p> + The terms of this solemn charge revived in the fisherman's heart the + habit of instinctive obedience in which his mother had trained him up, + and to which he had submitted implicitly while her powers of exacting it + remained entire. The recollection mingled also with the prevailing + passion of the moment; for, glancing his eye at the bed on which the dead + body had been laid, he muttered to himself, "<i>He</i> never disobeyed <i>me,</i> + in reason or out o' reason, and what for should I vex <i>her</i>?" Then, + taking his reluctant spouse by the arm, he led her gently out of the + cottage, and latched the door behind them as he left it. +</p> +<p> + As the unhappy parents withdrew, Lord Glenallan, to prevent the old woman + from relapsing into her lethargy, again pressed her on the subject of the + communication which she proposed to make to him. +</p> +<p> + "Ye will have it sune eneugh," she replied;—"my mind's clear eneugh now, + and there is not—I think there is not—a chance of my forgetting what I + have to say. My dwelling at Craigburnfoot is before my een, as it were + present in reality:—the green bank, with its selvidge, just where the + burn met wi' the sea—the twa little barks, wi' their sails furled, lying + in the natural cove which it formed—the high cliff that joined it with + the pleasure-grounds of the house of Glenallan, and hung right ower the + stream—Ah! yes—I may forget that I had a husband and have lost him— + that I hae but ane alive of our four fair sons—that misfortune upon + misfortune has devoured our ill-gotten wealth—that they carried the + corpse of my son's eldest-born frae the house this morning—But I never + can forget the days I spent at bonny Craigburnfoot!" +</p> +<p> + "You were a favourite of my mother," said Lord Glenallan, desirous to + bring her back to the point, from which she was wandering. +</p> +<p> + "I was, I was,—ye needna mind me o' that. She brought me up abune my + station, and wi' knowledge mair than my fellows—but, like the tempter of + auld, wi' the knowledge of gude she taught me the knowledge of evil." +</p> +<p> + "For God's sake, Elspeth," said the astonished Earl, "proceed, if you + can, to explain the dreadful hints you have thrown out! I well know you + are confidant to one dreadful secret, which should split this roof even + to hear it named—but speak on farther." +</p> +<p> + "I will," she said—"I will!—just bear wi' me for a little;"—and again + she seemed lost in recollection, but it was no longer tinged with + imbecility or apathy. She was now entering upon the topic which had long + loaded her mind, and which doubtless often occupied her whole soul at + times when she seemed dead to all around her. And I may add, as a + remarkable fact, that such was the intense operation of mental energy + upon her physical powers and nervous system, that, notwithstanding her + infirmity of deafness, each word that Lord Glenallan spoke during this + remarkable conference, although in the lowest tone of horror or agony, + fell as full and distinct upon Elspeth's ear as it could have done at any + period of her life. She spoke also herself clearly, distinctly, and + slowly, as if anxious that the intelligence she communicated should be + fully understood; concisely at the same time, and with none of the + verbiage or circumlocutory additions natural to those of her sex and + condition. In short, her language bespoke a better education, as well as + an uncommonly firm and resolved mind, and a character of that sort from + which great virtues or great crimes may be naturally expected. The tenor + of her communication is disclosed in the following CHAPTER. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0012"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER TWELFTH. +</h2> +<pre> + Remorse—she neer forsakes us— + A bloodhound staunch—she tracks our rapid step + Through the wild labyrinth of youthful frenzy, + Unheard, perchance, until old age hath tamed us + Then in our lair, when Time hath chilled our joints, + And maimed our hope of combat, or of flight, + We hear her deep-mouthed bay, announcing all + Of wrath, and wo, and punishment that bides us. + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + "I need not tell you," said the old woman, addressing the Earl of + Glenallan, "that I was the favourite and confidential attendant of + Joscelind, Countess of Glenallan, whom God assoilzie!"—(here she crossed + herself)—"and I think farther, ye may not have forgotten that I shared + her regard for mony years. I returned it by the maist sincere attachment, + but I fell into disgrace frae a trifling act of disobedience, reported to + your mother by ane that thought, and she wasna wrang, that I was a spy + upon her actions and yours." +</p> +<p> + "I charge thee, woman," said the Earl, in a voice trembling with passion, + "name not her name in my hearing!" +</p> +<p> + "I must," returned the penitent firmly and calmly, "or how can you + understand me?" +</p> +<p> + The Earl leaned upon one of the wooden chairs of the hut, drew his hat + over his face, clenched his hands together, set his teeth like one who + summons up courage to undergo a painful operation, and made a signal to + her to proceed. +</p> +<p> + "I say, then," she resumed, "that my disgrace with my mistress was + chiefly owing to Miss Eveline Neville, then bred up in Glenallan House as + the daughter of a cousin-german and intimate friend of your father that + was gane. There was muckle mystery in her history,—but wha dared to + inquire farther than the Countess liked to tell?—All in Glenallan House + loved Miss Neville—all but twa, your mother and mysell—we baith hated + her." +</p> +<p> + "God! for what reason, since a creature so mild, so gentle, so formed to + inspire affection, never walked on this wretched world?" +</p> +<p> + "It may hae been sae," rejoined Elspeth, "but your mother hated a' that + cam of your father's family—a' but himsell. Her reasons related to + strife which fell between them soon after her marriage; the particulars + are naething to this purpose. But oh! doubly did she hate Eveline Neville + when she perceived that there was a growing kindness atween you and that + unfortunate young leddy! Ye may mind that the Countess's dislike didna + gang farther at first than just showing o' the cauld shouther—at least + it wasna seen farther; but at the lang run it brak out into such + downright violence that Miss Neville was even fain to seek refuge at + Knockwinnock Castle with Sir Arthur's leddy, wha (God sain her!) was then + wi' the living." +</p> +<p> + "You rend my heart by recalling these particulars—But go on,—and may my + present agony be accepted as additional penance for the involuntary + crime!" +</p> +<p> + "She had been absent some months," continued Elspeth, "when I was ae + night watching in my hut the return of my husband from fishing, and + shedding in private those bitter tears that my proud spirit wrung frae me + whenever I thought on my disgrace. The sneck was drawn, and the Countess + your mother entered my dwelling. I thought I had seen a spectre, for even + in the height of my favour, this was an honour she had never done me, and + she looked as pale and ghastly as if she had risen from the grave. She + sat down, and wrung the draps from her hair and cloak,—for the night was + drizzling, and her walk had been through the plantations, that were a' + loaded with dew. I only mention these things that you may understand how + weel that night lives in my memory,—and weel it may. I was surprised to + see her, but I durstna speak first, mair than if I had seen a phantom— + Na, I durst not, my lord, I that hae seen mony sights of terror, and + never shook at them. Sae, after a silence, she said, Elspeth Cheyne (for + she always gave me my maiden name), are not ye the daughter of that + Reginald Cheyne who died to save his master, Lord Glenallan, on the field + of Sheriffmuir?' And I answered her as proudly as hersell nearly—As sure + as you are the daughter of that Earl of Glenallan whom my father saved + that day by his own death.'" +</p> +<p> + Here she made a deep pause. +</p> +<p> + "And what followed?—what followed?—For Heaven's sake, good woman—But + why should I use that word?—Yet, good or bad, I command you to tell me." +</p> +<p> + "And little I should value earthly command," answered Elspeth, "were + there not a voice that has spoken to me sleeping and waking, that drives + me forward to tell this sad tale. Aweel, my Lord—the Countess said to + me, My son loves Eveline Neville—they are agreed—they are plighted: + should they have a son, my right over Glenallan merges—I sink from that + moment from a Countess into a miserable stipendiary dowager, I who + brought lands and vassals, and high blood and ancient fame, to my + husband, I must cease to be mistress when my son has an heir-male. But I + care not for that—had he married any but one of the hated Nevilles, I + had been patient. But for them—that they and their descendants should + enjoy the right and honours of my ancestors, goes through my heart like a + two-edged dirk. And this girl—I detest her!'—And I answered, for my + heart kindled at her words, that her hate was equalled by mine." +</p> +<p> + "Wretch!" exclaimed the Earl, in spite of his determination to preserve + silence—"wretched woman! what cause of hate could have arisen from a + being so innocent and gentle?" +</p> +<p> + "I hated what my mistress hated, as was the use with the liege vassals of + the house of Glenallan; for though, my Lord, I married under my degree, + yet an ancestor of yours never went to the field of battle, but an + ancestor of the frail, demented, auld, useless wretch wha now speaks with + you, carried his shield before him. But that was not a'," continued the + beldam, her earthly and evil passions rekindling as she became heated in + her narration—"that was not a'; I hated Miss Eveline Neville for her ain + sake, I brought her frae England, and, during our whole journey, she + gecked and scorned at my northern speech and habit, as her southland + leddies and kimmers had done at the boarding-school, as they cald it"— + (and, strange as it may seem, she spoke of an affront offered by a + heedless school-girl without intention, with a degree of inveteracy + which, at such a distance of time, a mortal offence would neither have + authorized or excited in any well-constituted mind)—"Yes, she scorned + and jested at me—but let them that scorn the tartan fear the dirk!" +</p> +<p> + She paused, and then went on—"But I deny not that I hated her mair than + she deserved. My mistress, the Countess, persevered and said, Elspeth + Cheyne, this unruly boy will marry with the false English blood. Were + days as they have been, I could throw her into the Massymore* of + Glenallan, and fetter him in the Keep of Strathbonnel. +</p> +<p> + * <i>Massa-mora,</i> an ancient name for a dungeon, derived from the Moorish + language, perhaps as far back as the time of the Crusades. +</p> +<p> + But these times are past, and the authority which the nobles of the land + should exercise is delegated to quibbling lawyers and their baser + dependants. Hear me, Elspeth Cheyne! if you are your father's daughter as + I am mine, I will find means that they shall not marry. She walks often + to that cliff that overhangs your dwelling to look for her lover's boat— + (ye may remember the pleasure ye then took on the sea, my Lord)—let him + find her forty fathom lower than he expects!'—Yes! ye may stare and + frown and clench your hand; but, as sure as I am to face the only Being I + ever feared—and, oh that I had feared him mair!—these were your + mother's words. What avails it to me to lie to you?—But I wadna consent + to stain my hand with blood.—Then she said, By the religion of our holy + Church they are ower <i>sibb</i> thegither. But I expect nothing but that both + will become heretics as well as disobedient reprobates;'—that was her + addition to that argument. And then, as the fiend is ever ower busy wi' + brains like mine, that are subtle beyond their use and station, I was + unhappily permitted to add—But they might be brought to think themselves + sae <i>sibb</i> as no Christian law will permit their wedlock.'" +</p> +<p> + Here the Earl of Glenallan echoed her words, with a shriek so piercing as + almost to rend the roof of the cottage.—"Ah! then Eveline Neville was + not the—the"— +</p> +<p> + "The daughter, ye would say, of your father?" continued Elspeth. "No—be + it a torment or be it a comfort to you—ken the truth, she was nae mair a + daughter of your father's house than I am." +</p> +<p> + "Woman, deceive me not!—make me not curse the memory of the parent I + have so lately laid in the grave, for sharing in a plot the most cruel, + the most infernal"— +</p> +<p> + "Bethink ye, my Lord Geraldin, ere ye curse the memory of a parent that's + gane, is there none of the blood of Glenallan living, whose faults have + led to this dreadfu' catastrophe?" +</p> +<p> + "Mean you my brother?—he, too, is gone," said the Earl. +</p> +<p> + "No," replied the sibyl, "I mean yoursell, Lord Geraldin. Had you not + transgressed the obedience of a son by wedding Eveline Neville in secret + while a guest at Knockwinnock, our plot might have separated you for a + time, but would have left at least your sorrows without remorse to canker + them. But your ain conduct had put poison in the weapon that we threw, + and it pierced you with the mair force because ye cam rushing to meet it. + Had your marriage been a proclaimed and acknowledged action, our + stratagem to throw an obstacle into your way that couldna be got ower, + neither wad nor could hae been practised against ye." +</p> +<p> + "Great Heaven!" said the unfortunate nobleman—"it is as if a film fell + from my obscured eyes! Yes, I now well understand the doubtful hints of + consolation thrown out by my wretched mother, tending indirectly to + impeach the evidence of the horrors of which her arts had led me to + believe myself guilty." +</p> +<p> + "She could not speak mair plainly," answered Elspeth, "without confessing + her ain fraud,—and she would have submitted to be torn by wild horses, + rather than unfold what she had done; and if she had still lived, so + would I for her sake. They were stout hearts the race of Glenallan, male + and female, and sae were a' that in auld times cried their gathering-word + of <i>Clochnaben</i>—they stood shouther to shouther—nae man parted frae his + chief for love of gold or of gain, or of right or of wrang. The times are + changed, I hear, now." +</p> +<p> + The unfortunate nobleman was too much wrapped up in his own confused and + distracted reflections, to notice the rude expressions of savage + fidelity, in which, even in the latest ebb of life, the unhappy author of + his misfortunes seemed to find a stern and stubborn source of + consolation. +</p> +<p> + "Great Heaven!" he exclaimed, "I am then free from a guilt the most + horrible with which man can be stained, and the sense of which, however + involuntary, has wrecked my peace, destroyed my health, and bowed me down + to an untimely grave. Accept," he fervently uttered, lifting his eyes + upwards, "accept my humble thanks! If I live miserable, at least I shall + not die stained with that unnatural guilt!—And thou—proceed if thou + hast more to tell—proceed, while thou hast voice to speak it, and I have + powers to listen." +</p> +<p> + "Yes," answered the beldam, "the hour when you shall hear, and I shall + speak, is indeed passing rapidly away. Death has crossed your brow with + his finger, and I find his grasp turning every day coulder at my heart. + Interrupt me nae mair with exclamations and groans and accusations, but + hear my tale to an end! And then—if ye be indeed sic a Lord of Glenallan + as I hae heard of in <i>my</i> day—make your merrymen gather the thorn, and + the brier, and the green hollin, till they heap them as high as the + house-riggin', and burn! burn! burn! the auld witch Elspeth, and a' that + can put ye in mind that sic a creature ever crawled upon the land!" +</p> +<p> + "Go on," said the Earl, "go on—I will not again interrupt you." +</p> +<p> + He spoke in a half-suffocated yet determined voice, resolved that no + irritability on his part should deprive him of this opportunity of + acquiring proofs of the wonderful tale he then heard. But Elspeth had + become exhausted by a continuous narration of such unusual length; the + subsequent part of her story was more broken, and though still distinctly + intelligible in most parts, had no longer the lucid conciseness which the + first part of her narrative had displayed to such an astonishing degree. + Lord Glenallan found it necessary, when she had made some attempts to + continue her narrative without success, to prompt her memory by + demanding—"What proofs she could propose to bring of the truth of a + narrative so different from that which she had originally told?" +</p> +<p> + "The evidence," she replied, "of Eveline Neville's real birth was in the + Countess's possession, with reasons for its being for some time kept + private;—they may yet be found, if she has not destroyed them, in the + left hand drawer of the ebony cabinet that stood in the dressing-room. + These she meant to suppress for the time, until you went abroad again, + when she trusted, before your return, to send Miss Neville back to her + ain country, or to get her settled in marriage." +</p> +<p> + "But did you not show me letters of my father's, which seemed to me, + unless my senses altogether failed me in that horrible moment, to avow + his relationship to—to the unhappy"— +</p> +<p> + "We did; and, with my testimony, how could you doubt the fact, or her + either? But we suppressed the true explanation of these letters, and that + was, that your father thought it right the young leddy should pass for + his daughter for a while, on account o'some family reasons that were + amang them." +</p> +<p> + "But wherefore, when you learned our union, was this dreadful artifice + persisted in?" +</p> +<p> + "It wasna," she replied, "till Lady Glenallan had communicated this fause + tale, that she suspected ye had actually made a marriage—nor even then + did you avow it sae as to satisfy her whether the ceremony had in verity + passed atween ye or no—But ye remember, O ye canna but remember weel, + what passed in that awfu' meeting!" +</p> +<p> + "Woman! you swore upon the gospels to the fact which you now disavow." +</p> +<p> + "I did,—and I wad hae taen a yet mair holy pledge on it, if there had + been ane—I wad not hae spared the blood of my body, or the guilt of my + soul, to serve the house of Glenallan." +</p> +<p> + "Wretch! do you call that horrid perjury, attended with consequences yet + more dreadful—do you esteem that a service to the house of your + benefactors?" +</p> +<p> + "I served her, wha was then the head of Glenallan, as she required me to + serve her. The cause was between God and her conscience—the manner + between God and mine—She is gane to her account, and I maun follow. Have + I taulds you a'?" +</p> +<p> + "No," answered Lord Glenallan—"you have yet more to tell—you have to + tell me of the death of the angel whom your perjury drove to despair, + stained, as she thought herself, with a crime so horrible. Speak truth— + was that dreadful—was that horrible incident"—he could scarcely + articulate the words—"was it as reported? or was it an act of yet + further, though not more atrocious cruelty, inflicted by others?" +</p> +<p> + "I understand you," said Elspeth. "But report spoke truth;—our false + witness was indeed the cause, but the deed was her ain distracted act. On + that fearfu' disclosure, when ye rushed frae the Countess's presence and + saddled your horse, and left the castle like a fire-flaught, the Countess + hadna yet discovered your private marriage; she hadna fund out that the + union, which she had framed this awfu' tale to prevent, had e'en taen + place. Ye fled from the house as if the fire o' Heaven was about to fa' + upon it, and Miss Neville, atween reason and the want o't, was put under + sure ward. But the ward sleep't, and the prisoner waked—the window was + open—the way was before her—there was the cliff, and there was the + sea!—O, when will I forget that!" +</p> +<p> + "And thus died," said the Earl, "even so as was reported?" +</p> +<p> + "No, my lord. I had gane out to the cove—the tide was in, and it flowed, + as ye'll remember, to the foot o' that cliff—it was a great convenience + that for my husband's trade—Where am I wandering?—I saw a white object + dart frae the tap o' the cliff like a sea-maw through the mist, and then + a heavy flash and sparkle of the waters showed me it was a human creature + that had fa'en into the waves. I was bold and strong, and familiar with + the tide. I rushed in and grasped her gown, and drew her out and carried + her on my shouthers—I could hae carried twa sic then—carried her to my + hut, and laid her on my bed. Neighbours cam and brought help; but the + words she uttered in her ravings, when she got back the use of speech, + were such, that I was fain to send them awa, and get up word to Glenallan + House. The Countess sent down her Spanish servant Teresa—if ever there + was a fiend on earth in human form, that woman was ane. She and I were to + watch the unhappy leddy, and let no other person approach.—God knows + what Teresa's part was to hae been—she tauld it not to me—but Heaven + took the conclusion in its ain hand. The poor leddy! she took the pangs + of travail before her time, bore a male child, and died in the arms of + me—of her mortal enemy! Ay, <i>ye</i> may weep—she was a sightly creature to + see to—but think ye, if I didna mourn her then, that I can mourn her + now? Na, na, I left Teresa wi' the dead corpse and new-born babe, till I + gaed up to take the Countess's commands what was to be done. Late as it + was, I ca'd her up, and she gar'd me ca' up your brother"— +</p> +<p> + "My brother?" +</p> +<p> + "Yes, Lord Geraldin, e'en your brother, that some said she aye wished to + be her heir. At ony rate, he was the person maist concerned in the + succession and heritance of the house of Glenallan." +</p> +<p> + "And is it possible to believe, then, that my brother, out of avarice to + grasp at my inheritance, would lend himself to such a base and dreadful + stratagem?" +</p> +<p> + "Your mother believed it," said the old beldam with a fiendish laugh—"it + was nae plot of my making; but what they did or said I will not say, + because I did not hear. Lang and sair they consulted in the black + wainscot dressing-room; and when your brother passed through the room + where I was waiting, it seemed to me (and I have often thought sae since + syne) that the fire of hell was in his cheek and een. But he had left + some of it with his mother, at ony rate. She entered the room like a + woman demented, and the first words she spoke were, Elspeth Cheyne, did + you ever pull a new-budded flower?' I answered, as ye may believe, that I + often had. Then,' said she, ye will ken the better how to blight the + spurious and heretical blossom that has sprung forth this night to + disgrace my father's noble house—See here;'—(and she gave me a golden + bodkin)—nothing but gold must shed the blood of Glenallan. This child is + already as one of the dead, and since thou and Teresa alone ken that it + lives, let it be dealt upon as ye will answer to me!' and she turned away + in her fury, and left me with the bodkin in my hand.—Here it is; that + and the ring of Miss Neville, are a' I hae preserved of my ill-gotten + gear—for muckle was the gear I got. And weel hae I keepit the secret, + but no for the gowd or gear either." +</p> +<p> + Her long and bony hand held out to Lord Glenallan a gold bodkin, down + which in fancy he saw the blood of his infant trickling. +</p> +<p> + "Wretch! had you the heart?" +</p> +<p> + "I kenna if I could hae had it or no. I returned to my cottage without + feeling the ground that I trode on; but Teresa and the child were gane— + a' that was alive was gane—naething left but the lifeless corpse." +</p> +<p> + "And did you never learn my infant's fate?" +</p> +<p> + "I could but guess. I have tauld ye your mother's purpose, and I ken + Teresa was a fiend. She was never mair seen in Scotland, and I have heard + that she returned to her ain land. A dark curtain has fa'en ower the + past, and the few that witnessed ony part of it could only surmise + something of seduction and suicide. You yourself"— +</p> +<p> + "I know—I know it all," answered the Earl. +</p> +<p> + "You indeed know all that I can say—And now, heir of Glenallan, can you + forgive me?" +</p> +<a name="image-0006"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/pb150.jpg" height="797" width="536" +alt="Lord Glenallen and Elspeth +"> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<p> + "Ask forgiveness of God, and not of man," said the Earl, turning away. +</p> +<p> + "And how shall I ask of the pure and unstained what is denied to me by a + sinner like mysell? If I hae sinned, hae I not suffered?—Hae I had a + day's peace or an hour's rest since these lang wet locks of hair first + lay upon my pillow at Craigburnfoot?—Has not my house been burned, wi' + my bairn in the cradle?—Have not my boats been wrecked, when a' others + weather'd the gale?—Have not a' that were near and dear to me dree'd + penance for my sin?—Has not the fire had its share o' them—the winds + had their part—the sea had her part?—And oh!" she added, with a + lengthened groan, looking first upwards towards Heaven, and then bending + her eyes on the floor—"O that the earth would take her part, that's been + lang lang wearying to be joined to it!" +</p> +<p> + Lord Glenallan had reached the door of the cottage, but the generosity of + his nature did not permit him to leave the unhappy woman in this state of + desperate reprobation. "May God forgive thee, wretched woman," he said, + "as sincerely as I do!—Turn for mercy to Him who can alone grant mercy, + and may your prayers be heard as if they were mine own!—I will send a + religious man." +</p> +<p> + "Na, na—nae priest! nae priest!" she ejaculated; and the door of the + cottage opening as she spoke, prevented her from proceeding. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0013"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER THIRTEENTH. +</h2> +<pre> + Still in his dead hand clenched remain the strings + That thrill his father's heart—e'en as the limb, + Lopped off and laid in grave, retains, they tell us, + Strange commerce with the mutilated stump, + Whose nerves are twinging still in maimed existence. + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + The Antiquary, as we informed the reader in the end of the thirty-first + CHAPTER, [tenth] had shaken off the company of worthy Mr. Blattergowl, + although he offered to entertain him with an abstract of the ablest + speech he had ever known in the teind court, delivered by the procurator + for the church in the remarkable case of the parish of Gatherem. + Resisting this temptation, our senior preferred a solitary path, which + again conducted him to the cottage of Mucklebackit. When he came in front + of the fisherman's hut, he observed a man working intently, as if to + repair a shattered boat which lay upon the beach, and going up to him was + surprised to find it was Mucklebackit himself. "I am glad," he said in a + tone of sympathy—"I am glad, Saunders, that you feel yourself able to + make this exertion." +</p> +<p> + "And what would ye have me to do," answered the fisher gruffly, "unless I + wanted to see four children starve, because ane is drowned? It's weel wi' + you gentles, that can sit in the house wi' handkerchers at your een when + ye lose a friend; but the like o' us maun to our wark again, if our + hearts were beating as hard as my hammer." +</p> +<p> + Without taking more notice of Oldbuck, he proceeded in his labour; and + the Antiquary, to whom the display of human nature under the influence of + agitating passions was never indifferent, stood beside him, in silent + attention, as if watching the progress of the work. He observed more than + once the man's hard features, as if by the force of association, prepare + to accompany the sound of the saw and hammer with his usual symphony of a + rude tune, hummed or whistled,—and as often a slight twitch of + convulsive expression showed, that ere the sound was uttered, a cause for + suppressing it rushed upon his mind. At length, when he had patched a + considerable rent, and was beginning to mend another, his feelings + appeared altogether to derange the power of attention necessary for his + work. The piece of wood which he was about to nail on was at first too + long; then he sawed it off too short, then chose another equally ill + adapted for the purpose. At length, throwing it down in anger, after + wiping his dim eye with his quivering hand, he exclaimed, "There is a + curse either on me or on this auld black bitch of a boat, that I have + hauled up high and dry, and patched and clouted sae mony years, that she + might drown my poor Steenie at the end of them, an' be d—d to her!" and + he flung his hammer against the boat, as if she had been the intentional + cause of his misfortune. Then recollecting himself, he added, "Yet what + needs ane be angry at her, that has neither soul nor sense?—though I am + no that muckle better mysell. She's but a rickle o' auld rotten deals + nailed thegither, and warped wi' the wind and the sea—and I am a dour + carle, battered by foul weather at sea and land till I am maist as + senseless as hersell. She maun be mended though again the morning tide— + that's a thing o' necessity." +</p> +<p> + Thus speaking, he went to gather together his instruments, and attempt to + resume his labour,—but Oldbuck took him kindly by the arm. "Come, come," + he said, "Saunders, there is no work for you this day—I'll send down + Shavings the carpenter to mend the boat, and he may put the day's work + into my account—and you had better not come out to-morrow, but stay to + comfort your family under this dispensation, and the gardener will bring + you some vegetables and meal from Monkbarns." +</p> +<p> + "I thank ye, Monkbarns," answered the poor fisher; "I am a plain-spoken + man, and hae little to say for mysell; I might hae learned fairer + fashions frae my mither lang syne, but I never saw muckle gude they did + her; however, I thank ye. Ye were aye kind and neighbourly, whatever folk + says o' your being near and close; and I hae often said, in thae times + when they were ganging to raise up the puir folk against the gentles—I + hae often said, neer a man should steer a hair touching to Monkbarns + while Steenie and I could wag a finger—and so said Steenie too. And, + Monkbarns, when ye laid his head in the grave (and mony thanks for the + respect), ye, saw the mouls laid on an honest lad that likit you weel, + though he made little phrase about it." +</p> +<p> + Oldbuck, beaten from the pride of his affected cynicism, would not + willingly have had any one by on that occasion to quote to him his + favourite maxims of the Stoic philosophy. The large drops fell fast from + his own eyes, as he begged the father, who was now melted at recollecting + the bravery and generous sentiments of his son, to forbear useless + sorrow, and led him by the arm towards his own home, where another scene + awaited our Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + As he entered, the first person whom he beheld was Lord Glenallan. Mutual + surprise was in their countenances as they saluted each other—with + haughty reserve on the part of Mr. Oldbuck, and embarrassment on that of + the Earl. +</p> +<p> + "My Lord Glenallan, I think?" said Mr. Oldbuck. +</p> +<p> + "Yes—much changed from what he was when he knew Mr. Oldbuck." +</p> +<p> + "I do not mean," said the Antiquary, "to intrude upon your lordship—I + only came to see this distressed family." +</p> +<p> + "And you have found one, sir, who has still greater claims on your + compassion." +</p> +<p> + "My compassion? Lord Glenallan cannot need my compassion. If Lord + Glenallan could need it, I think he would hardly ask it." +</p> +<p> + "Our former acquaintance," said the Earl— +</p> +<p> + "Is of such ancient date, my lord—was of such short duration, and was + connected with circumstances so exquisitely painful, that I think we may + dispense with renewing it." +</p> +<p> + So saying, the Antiquary turned away, and left the hut; but Lord + Glenallan followed him into the open air, and, in spite of a hasty "Good + morning, my lord," requested a few minutes' conversation, and the favour + of his advice in an important matter. +</p> +<p> + "Your lordship will find many more capable to advise you, my lord, and by + whom your intercourse will be deemed an honour. For me, I am a man + retired from business and the world, and not very fond of raking up the + past events of my useless life;—and forgive me if I say, I have + particular pain in reverting to that period of it when I acted like a + fool, and your lordship like"—He stopped short. +</p> +<p> + "Like a villain, you would say," said Lord Glenallan—"for such I must + have appeared to you." +</p> +<p> + "My lord—my lord, I have no desire to hear your shrift," said the + Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "But, sir, if I can show you that I am more sinned against than sinning— + that I have been a man miserable beyond the power of description, and who + looks forward at this moment to an untimely grave as to a haven of rest, + you will not refuse the confidence which, accepting your appearance at + this critical moment as a hint from Heaven, I venture thus to press on + you." +</p> +<p> + "Assuredly, my lord, I shall shun no longer the continuation of this + extraordinary interview." +</p> +<p> + "I must then recall to you our occasional meetings upwards of twenty + years since at Knockwinnock Castle,—and I need not remind you of a lady + who was then a member of that family." +</p> +<p> + "The unfortunate Miss Eveline Neville, my lord; I remember it well." +</p> +<p> + "Towards whom you entertained sentiments"— +</p> +<p> + "Very different from those with which I before and since have regarded + her sex. Her gentleness, her docility, her pleasure in the studies which + I pointed out to her, attached my affections more than became my age + though that was not then much advanced—or the solidity of my character. + But I need not remind your lordship of the various modes in which you + indulged your gaiety at the expense of an awkward and retired student, + embarrassed by the expression of feelings so new to him, and I have no + doubt that the young lady joined you in the well-deserved ridicule—it is + the way of womankind. I have spoken at once to the painful circumstances + of my addresses and their rejection, that your lordship may be satisfied + everything is full in my memory, and may, so far as I am concerned, tell + your story without scruple or needless delicacy." +</p> +<p> + "I will," said Lord Glenallan. "But first let me say, you do injustice to + the memory of the gentlest and kindest, as well as to the most unhappy of + women, to suppose she could make a jest of the honest affection of a man + like you. Frequently did she blame me, Mr. Oldbuck, for indulging my + levity at your expense—may I now presume you will excuse the gay + freedoms which then offended you?—my state of mind has never since laid + me under the necessity of apologizing for the inadvertencies of a light + and happy temper." +</p> +<p> + "My lord, you are fully pardoned," said Mr. Oldbuck. "You should be + aware, that, like all others, I was ignorant at the time that I placed + myself in competition with your lordship, and understood that Miss + Neville was in a state of dependence which might make her prefer a + competent independence and the hand of an honest man—But I am wasting + time—I would I could believe that the views entertained towards her by + others were as fair and honest as mine!" +</p> +<p> + "Mr. Oldbuck, you judge harshly." +</p> +<p> + "Not without cause, my lord. When I only, of all the magistrates of this + county—having neither, like some of them, the honour to be connected + with your powerful family—nor, like others, the meanness to fear it,— + when I made some inquiry into the manner of Miss Neville's death—I shake + you, my lord, but I must be plain—I do own I had every reason to believe + that she had met most unfair dealing, and had either been imposed upon by + a counterfeit marriage, or that very strong measures had been adopted to + stifle and destroy the evidence of a real union. And I cannot doubt in my + own mind, that this cruelty on your lordship's part, whether coming of + your own free will, or proceeding from the influence of the late + Countess, hurried the unfortunate young lady to the desperate act by + which her life was terminated." +</p> +<p> + "You are deceived, Mr. Oldbuck, into conclusions which are not just, + however naturally they flow from the circumstances. Believe me, I + respected you even when I was most embarrassed by your active attempts to + investigate our family misfortunes. You showed yourself more worthy of + Miss Neville than I, by the spirit with which you persisted in + vindicating her reputation even after her death. But the firm belief that + your well-meant efforts could only serve to bring to light a story too + horrible to be detailed, induced me to join my unhappy mother in schemes + to remove or destroy all evidence of the legal union which had taken + place between Eveline and myself. And now let us sit down on this bank,— + for I feel unable to remain longer standing,—and have the goodness to + listen to the extraordinary discovery which I have this day made." +</p> +<p> + They sate down accordingly; and Lord Glenallan briefly narrated his + unhappy family history—his concealed marriage—the horrible invention by + which his mother had designed to render impossible that union which had + already taken place. He detailed the arts by which the Countess, having + all the documents relative to Miss Neville's birth in her hands, had + produced those only relating to a period during which, for family + reasons, his father had consented to own that young lady as his natural + daughter, and showed how impossible it was that he could either suspect + or detect the fraud put upon him by his mother, and vouched by the oaths + of her attendants, Teresa and Elspeth. "I left my paternal mansion," he + concluded, "as if the furies of hell had driven me forth, and travelled + with frantic velocity I knew not whither. Nor have I the slightest + recollection of what I did or whither I went, until I was discovered by + my brother. I will not trouble you with an account of my sick-bed and + recovery, or how, long afterwards, I ventured to inquire after the sharer + of my misfortunes, and heard that her despair had found a dreadful remedy + for all the ills of life. The first thing that roused me to thought was + hearing of your inquiries into this cruel business; and you will hardly + wonder, that, believing what I did believe, I should join in those + expedients to stop your investigation, which my brother and mother had + actively commenced. The information which I gave them concerning the + circumstances and witnesses of our private marriage enabled them to + baffle your zeal. The clergyman, therefore, and witnesses, as persons who + had acted in the matter only to please the powerful heir of Glenallan, + were accessible to his promises and threats, and were so provided for, + that they had no objections to leave this country for another. For + myself, Mr. Oldbuck," pursued this unhappy man, "from that moment I + considered myself as blotted out of the book of the living, and as having + nothing left to do with this world. My mother tried to reconcile me to + life by every art—even by intimations which I can now interpret as + calculated to produce a doubt of the horrible tale she herself had + fabricated. But I construed all she said as the fictions of maternal + affection. I will forbear all reproach. She is no more—and, as her + wretched associate said, she knew not how the dart was poisoned, or how + deep it must sink, when she threw it from her hand. But, Mr. Oldbuck, if + ever, during these twenty years, there crawled upon earth a living being + deserving of your pity, I have been that man. My food has not nourished + me—my sleep has not refreshed me—my devotions have not comforted me— + all that is cheering and necessary to man has been to me converted into + poison. The rare and limited intercourse which I have held with others + has been most odious to me. I felt as if I were bringing the + contamination of unnatural and inexpressible guilt among the gay and the + innocent. There have been moments when I had thoughts of another + description—to plunge into the adventures of war, or to brave the + dangers of the traveller in foreign and barbarous climates—to mingle in + political intrigue, or to retire to the stern seclusion of the anchorites + of our religion;—all these are thoughts which have alternately passed + through my mind, but each required an energy, which was mine no longer, + after the withering stroke I had received. I vegetated on as I could in + the same spot—fancy, feeling, judgment, and health, gradually decaying, + like a tree whose bark has been destroyed,—when first the blossoms fade, + then the boughs, until its state resembles the decayed and dying trunk + that is now before you. Do you now pity and forgive me?" +</p> +<p> + "My lord," answered the Antiquary, much affected, "my pity—my + forgiveness, you have not to ask, for your dismal story is of itself not + only an ample excuse for whatever appeared mysterious in your conduct, + but a narrative that might move your worst enemies (and I, my lord, was + never of the number) to tears and to sympathy. But permit me to ask what + you now mean to do, and why you have honoured me, whose opinion can be of + little consequence, with your confidence on this occasion?" +</p> +<p> + "Mr. Oldbuck," answered the Earl, "as I could never have foreseen the + nature of that confession which I have heard this day, I need not say + that I had no formed plan of consulting you, or any one, upon affairs the + tendency of which I could not even have suspected. But I am without + friends, unused to business, and, by long retirement, unacquainted alike + with the laws of the land and the habits of the living generation; and + when, most unexpectedly, I find myself immersed in the matters of which I + know least, I catch, like a drowning man, at the first support that + offers. You are that support, Mr. Oldbuck. I have always heard you + mentioned as a man of wisdom and intelligence—I have known you myself as + a man of a resolute and independent spirit;—and there is one + circumstance," said he, "which ought to combine us in some degree—our + having paid tribute to the same excellence of character in poor Eveline. + You offered yourself to me in my need, and you were already acquainted + with the beginning of my misfortunes. To you, therefore, I have recourse + for advice, for sympathy, for support." +</p> +<p> + "You shall seek none of them in vain, my lord," said Oldbuck, "so far as + my slender ability extends;—and I am honoured by the preference, whether + it arises from choice, or is prompted by chance. But this is a matter to + be ripely considered. May I ask what are your principal views at + present?" +</p> +<p> + "To ascertain the fate of my child," said the Earl, "be the consequences + what they may, and to do justice to the honour of Eveline, which I have + only permitted to be suspected to avoid discovery of the yet more + horrible taint to which I was made to believe it liable." +</p> +<p> + "And the memory of your mother?" +</p> +<p> + "Must bear its own burden," answered the Earl with a sigh: "better that + she were justly convicted of deceit, should that be found necessary, than + that others should be unjustly accused of crimes so much more dreadful." +</p> +<p> + "Then, my lord," said Oldbuck, "our first business must be to put the + information of the old woman, Elspeth, into a regular and authenticated + form." +</p> +<p> + "That," said Lord Glenallan, "will be at present, I fear, impossible. She + is exhausted herself, and surrounded by her distressed family. To-morrow, + perhaps, when she is alone—and yet I doubt, from her imperfect sense of + right and wrong, whether she would speak out in any one's presence but my + own. I am too sorely fatigued." +</p> +<p> + "Then, my lord," said the Antiquary, whom the interest of the moment + elevated above points of expense and convenience, which had generally + more than enough of weight with him, "I would propose to your lordship, + instead of returning, fatigued as you are, so far as to Glenallan House, + or taking the more uncomfortable alternative of going to a bad inn at + Fairport, to alarm all the busybodies of the town—I would propose, I + say, that you should be my guest at Monkbarns for this night. By + to-morrow these poor people will have renewed their out-of-doors + vocation—for sorrow with them affords no respite from labour,—and we + will visit the old woman Elspeth alone, and take down her examination." +</p> +<p> + After a formal apology for the encroachment, Lord Glenallan agreed to go + with him, and underwent with patience in their return home the whole + history of John of the Girnel, a legend which Mr. Oldbuck was never known + to spare any one who crossed his threshold. +</p> +<p> + The arrival of a stranger of such note, with two saddle-horses and a + servant in black, which servant had holsters on his saddle-bow, and a + coronet upon the holsters, created a general commotion in the house of + Monkbarns. Jenny Rintherout, scarce recovered from the hysterics which + she had taken on hearing of poor Steenie's misfortune, chased about the + turkeys and poultry, cackled and screamed louder than they did, and ended + by killing one-half too many. Miss Griselda made many wise reflections on + the hot-headed wilfulness of her brother, who had occasioned such + devastation, by suddenly bringing in upon them a papist nobleman. And she + ventured to transmit to Mr. Blattergowl some hint of the unusual + slaughter which had taken place in the <i>basse-cour,</i> which brought the + honest clergyman to inquire how his friend Monkbarns had got home, and + whether he was not the worse of being at the funeral, at a period so near + the ringing of the bell for dinner, that the Antiquary had no choice left + but to invite him to stay and bless the meat. Miss M'Intyre had on her + part some curiosity to see this mighty peer, of whom all had heard, as an + eastern caliph or sultan is heard of by his subjects, and felt some + degree of timidity at the idea of encountering a person, of whose + unsocial habits and stern manners so many stories were told, that her + fear kept at least pace with her curiosity. The aged housekeeper was no + less flustered and hurried in obeying the numerous and contradictory + commands of her mistress, concerning preserves, pastry and fruit, the + mode of marshalling and dishing the dinner, the necessity of not + permitting the melted butter to run to oil, and the danger of allowing + Juno—who, though formally banished from the parlour, failed not to + maraud about the out-settlements of the family—to enter the kitchen. +</p> +<p> + The only inmate of Monkbarns who remained entirely indifferent on this + momentous occasion was Hector M'Intyre, who cared no more for an Earl + than he did for a commoner, and who was only interested in the unexpected + visit, as it might afford some protection against his uncle's + displeasure, if he harboured any, for his not attending the funeral, and + still more against his satire upon the subject of his gallant but + unsuccessful single combat with the <i>phoca,</i> or seal. +</p> +<p> + To these, the inmates of his household, Oldbuck presented the Earl of + Glenallan, who underwent, with meek and subdued civility, the prosing + speeches of the honest divine, and the lengthened apologies of Miss + Griselda Oldbuck, which her brother in vain endeavoured to abridge. + Before the dinner hour, Lord Glenallan requested permission to retire a + while to his chamber. Mr. Oldbuck accompanied his guest to the Green + Room, which had been hastily prepared for his reception. He looked around + with an air of painful recollection. +</p> +<p> + "I think," at length he observed, "I think, Mr. Oldbuck, that I have been + in this apartment before." +</p> +<p> + "Yes, my lord," answered Oldbuck, "upon occasion of an excursion hither + from Knockwinnock—and since we are upon a subject so melancholy, you may + perhaps remember whose taste supplied these lines from Chaucer, which now + form the motto of the tapestry." +</p> +<p> + "I guess", said the Earl, "though I cannot recollect. She excelled me, + indeed, in literary taste and information, as in everything else; and it + is one of the mysterious dispensations of Providence, Mr. Oldbuck, that a + creature so excellent in mind and body should have been cut off in so + miserable a manner, merely from her having formed a fatal attachment to + such a wretch as I am." +</p> +<p> + Mr. Oldbuck did not attempt an answer to this burst of the grief which + lay ever nearest to the heart of his guest, but, pressing Lord + Glenallan's hand with one of his own, and drawing the other across his + shaggy eyelashes, as if to brush away a mist that intercepted his sight, + he left the Earl at liberty to arrange himself previous to dinner. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0014"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER FOURTEENTH +</h2> +<pre> + —Life, with you, + Glows in the brain and dances in the arteries; + 'Tis like the wine some joyous guest hath quaffed, + That glads the heart and elevates the fancy: + Mine is the poor residuum of the cup, + Vapid, and dull, and tasteless, only soiling, + With its base dregs, the vessel that contains it. + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + "Now, only think what a man my brother is, Mr. Blattergowl, for a wise + man and a learned man, to bring this Yerl into our house without speaking + a word to a body! And there's the distress of thae Mucklebackits—we + canna get a fin o' fish—and we hae nae time to send ower to Fairport for + beef, and the mutton's but new killed—and that silly fliskmahoy, Jenny + Rintherout, has taen the exies, and done naething but laugh and greet, + the skirl at the tail o' the guffaw, for twa days successfully—and now + we maun ask that strange man, that's as grand and as grave as the Yerl + himsell, to stand at the sideboard! and I canna gang into the kitchen to + direct onything, for he's hovering there, making some pousowdie* for my + Lord, for he doesna eat like ither folk neither—And how to sort the + strange servant man at dinner time—I am sure, Mr. Blattergowl, + a'thegither, it passes my judgment." +</p> +<p> + * <i>Pousowdie,</i>—Miscellaneous mess. +</p> +<p> + "Truly, Miss Griselda," replied the divine, "Monkbarns was inconsiderate. + He should have taen a day to see the invitation, as they do wi' the + titular's condescendence in the process of valuation and sale. But the + great man could not have come on a sudden to ony house in this parish + where he could have been better served with <i>vivers</i>—that I must say— + and also that the steam from the kitchen is very gratifying to my + nostrils;—and if ye have ony household affairs to attend to, Mrs. + Griselda, never make a stranger of me—I can amuse mysell very weel with + the larger copy of Erskine's Institutes." +</p> +<p> + And taking down from the window-seat that amusing folio, (the Scottish + Coke upon Littleton), he opened it, as if instinctively, at the tenth + title of Book Second, "of Teinds or Tythes," and was presently deeply + wrapped up in an abstruse discussion concerning the temporality of + benefices. +</p> +<p> + The entertainment, about which Miss Oldbuck expressed so much anxiety, + was at length placed upon the table; and the Earl of Glenallan, for the + first time since the date of his calamity, sat at a stranger's board, + surrounded by strangers. He seemed to himself like a man in a dream, or + one whose brain was not fully recovered from the effects of an + intoxicating potion. Relieved, as he had that morning been, from the + image of guilt which had so long haunted his imagination, he felt his + sorrows as a lighter and more tolerable load, but was still unable to + take any share in the conversation that passed around him. It was, + indeed, of a cast very different from that which he had been accustomed + to. The bluntness of Oldbuck, the tiresome apologetic harangues of his + sister, the pedantry of the divine, and the vivacity of the young + soldier, which savoured much more of the camp than of the court, were all + new to a nobleman who had lived in a retired and melancholy state for so + many years, that the manners of the world seemed to him equally strange + and unpleasing. Miss M'Intyre alone, from the natural politeness and + unpretending simplicity of her manners, appeared to belong to that class + of society to which he had been accustomed in his earlier and better + days. +</p> +<p> + Nor did Lord Glenallan's deportment less surprise the company. Though a + plain but excellent family-dinner was provided (for, as Mr. Blattergowl + had justly said, it was impossible to surprise Miss Griselda when her + larder was empty), and though the Antiquary boasted his best port, and + assimilated it to the Falernian of Horace, Lord Glenallan was proof to + the allurements of both. His servant placed before him a small mess of + vegetables, that very dish, the cooking of which had alarmed Miss + Griselda, arranged with the most minute and scrupulous neatness. He ate + sparingly of these provisions; and a glass of pure water, sparkling from + the fountain-head, completed his repast. Such, his servant said, had been + his lordship's diet for very many years, unless upon the high festivals + of the Church, or when company of the first rank were entertained at + Glenallan House, when he relaxed a little in the austerity of his diet, + and permitted himself a glass or two of wine. But at Monkbarns, no + anchoret could have made a more simple and scanty meal. +</p> +<p> + The Antiquary was a gentleman, as we have seen, in feeling, but blunt and + careless in expression, from the habit of living with those before whom + he had nothing to suppress. He attacked his noble guest without scruple + on the severity of his regimen. +</p> +<p> + "A few half-cold greens and potatoes—a glass of ice-cold water to wash + them down—antiquity gives no warrant for it, my lord. This house used to + be accounted a <i>hospitium,</i> a place of retreat for Christians; but your + lordship's diet is that of a heathen Pythagorean, or Indian Bramin—nay, + more severe than either, if you refuse these fine apples." +</p> +<p> + "I am a Catholic, you are aware," said Lord Glenallan, wishing to escape + from the discussion, "and you know that our church"—— +</p> +<p> + "Lays down many rules of mortification," proceeded the dauntless + Antiquary; "but I never heard that they were quite so rigorously + practised—Bear witness my predecessor, John of the Girnel, or the jolly + Abbot, who gave his name to this apple, my lord." +</p> +<p> + And as he pared the fruit, in spite of his sister's "O fie, Monkbarns!" + and the prolonged cough of the minister, accompanied by a shake of his + huge wig, the Antiquary proceeded to detail the intrigue which had given + rise to the fame of the abbot's apple with more slyness and + circumstantiality than was at all necessary. His jest (as may readily be + conceived) missed fire, for this anecdote of conventual gallantry failed + to produce the slightest smile on the visage of the Earl. Oldbuck then + took up the subject of Ossian, Macpherson, and Mac-Cribb; but Lord + Glenallan had never so much as heard of any of the three, so little + conversant had he been with modern literature. The conversation was now + in some danger of flagging, or of falling into the hands of Mr. + Blattergowl, who had just pronounced the formidable word, "teind-free," + when the subject of the French Revolution was started—a political event + on which Lord Glenallan looked with all the prejudiced horror of a + bigoted Catholic and zealous aristocrat. Oldbuck was far from carrying + his detestation of its principles to such a length. +</p> +<p> + "There were many men in the first Constituent Assembly," he said, "who + held sound Whiggish doctrines, and were for settling the Constitution + with a proper provision for the liberties of the people. And if a set of + furious madmen were now in possession of the government, it was," he + continued, "what often happened in great revolutions, where extreme + measures are adopted in the fury of the moment, and the State resembles + an agitated pendulum which swings from side to side for some time ere it + can acquire its due and perpendicular station. Or it might be likened to + a storm or hurricane, which, passing over a region, does great damage in + its passage, yet sweeps away stagnant and unwholesome vapours, and + repays, in future health and fertility, its immediate desolation and + ravage." +</p> +<p> + The Earl shook his head; but having neither spirit nor inclination for + debate, he suffered the argument to pass uncontested. +</p> +<p> + This discussion served to introduce the young soldier's experiences; and + he spoke of the actions in which he, had been engaged, with modesty, and + at the same time with an air of spirit and zeal which delighted the Earl, + who had been bred up, like others of his house, in the opinion that the + trade of arms was the first duty of man, and believed that to employ them + against the French was a sort of holy warfare. +</p> +<p> + "What would I give," said he apart to Oldbuck, as they rose to join the + ladies in the drawing-room, "what would I give to have a son of such + spirit as that young gentleman!—He wants something of address and + manner, something of polish, which mixing in good society would soon give + him; but with what zeal and animation he expresses himself—how fond of + his profession—how loud in the praise of others—how modest when + speaking of himself!" +</p> +<p> + "Hector is much obliged to you, my lord," replied his uncle, gratified, + yet not so much so as to suppress his consciousness of his own mental + superiority over the young soldier; "I believe in my heart nobody ever + spoke half so much good of him before, except perhaps the sergeant of his + company, when was wheedling a Highland recruit to enlist with him. He is + a good lad notwithstanding, although he be not quite the hero your + lordship supposes him, and although my commendations rather attest the + kindness than the vivacity of his character. In fact, his high spirit is + a sort of constitutional vehemence, which attends him in everything he + sets about, and is often very inconvenient to his friends. I saw him + to-day engage in an animated contest with a <i>phoca,</i> or seal (<i>sealgh,</i> + our people more properly call them, retaining the Gothic guttural <i>gh</i>), + with as much vehemence as if he had fought against Dumourier—Marry, my + lord, the <i>phoca</i> had the better, as the said Dumourier had of some other + folks. And he'll talk with equal if not superior rapture of the good + behaviour of a pointer bitch, as of the plan of a campaign." +</p> +<p> + "He shall have full permission to sport over my grounds," said the Earl, + "if he is so fond of that exercise." +</p> +<p> + "You will bind him to you, my lord," said Monkbarns, "body and soul: give + him leave to crack off his birding-piece at a poor covey of partridges or + moor-fowl, and he's yours for ever—I will enchant him by the + intelligence. But O, my lord, that you could have seen my phoenix + Lovel!—the very prince and chieftain of the youth of this age; and not + destitute of spirit neither—I promise you he gave my termagant kinsman a + <i>quid pro quo</i>—a Rowland for his Oliver, as the vulgar say, alluding to + the two celebrated Paladins of Charlemagne." +</p> +<p> + After coffee, Lord Glenallan requested a private interview with the + Antiquary, and was ushered to his library. +</p> +<p> + "I must withdraw you from your own amiable family," he said, "to involve + you in the perplexities of an unhappy man. You are acquainted with the + world, from which I have long been banished; for Glenallan House has been + to me rather a prison than a dwelling, although a prison which I had + neither fortitude nor spirit to break from." +</p> +<p> + "Let me first ask your lordship," said the Antiquary, "what are your own + wishes and designs in this matter?" +</p> +<p> + "I wish most especially," answered Lord Glenallan, "to declare my + luckless marriage, and to vindicate the reputation of the unhappy + Eveline—that is, if you see a possibility of doing so without making + public the conduct of my mother." +</p> +<p> + "<i>Suum cuique tribuito,</i>" said the Antiquary; "do right to everyone. The + memory of that unhappy young lady has too long suffered, and I think it + might be cleared without further impeaching that of your mother, than by + letting it be understood in general that she greatly disapproved and + bitterly opposed the match. All—forgive me, my lord—all who ever heard + of the late Countess of Glenallan, will learn that without much + surprise." +</p> +<p> + "But you forget one horrible circumstance, Mr. Oldbuck," said the Earl, + in an agitated voice. +</p> +<p> + "I am not aware of it," replied the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "The fate of the infant—its disappearance with the confidential + attendant of my mother, and the dreadful surmises which may be drawn from + my conversation with Elspeth." +</p> +<p> + "If you would have my free opinion, my lord," answered Mr. Oldbuck, "and + will not catch too rapidly at it as matter of hope, I would say that it + is very possible the child yet lives. For thus much I ascertained, by my + former inquiries concerning the event of that deplorable evening, that a + child and woman were carried that night from the cottage at the + Craigburnfoot in a carriage and four by your brother Edward Geraldin + Neville, whose journey towards England with these companions I traced for + several stages. I believed then it was a part of the family compact to + carry a child whom you meant to stigmatize with illegitimacy, out of that + country where chance might have raised protectors and proofs of its + rights. But I now think that your brother, having reason, like yourself, + to believe the child stained with shame yet more indelible, had + nevertheless withdrawn it, partly from regard to the honour of his house, + partly from the risk to which it might have been exposed in the + neighbourhood of the Lady Glenallan." +</p> +<p> + As he spoke, the Earl of Glenallan grew extremely pale, and had nearly + fallen from his chair.—The alarmed Antiquary ran hither and thither + looking for remedies; but his museum, though sufficiently well filled + with a vast variety of useless matters, contained nothing that could be + serviceable on the present or any other occasion. As he posted out of the + room to borrow his sister's salts, he could not help giving a + constitutional growl of chagrin and wonder at the various incidents which + had converted his mansion, first into an hospital for a wounded duellist, + and now into the sick chamber of a dying nobleman. "And yet," said he, "I + have always kept aloof from the soldiery and the peerage. My + <i>coenobitium</i> has only next to be made a lying-in hospital, and then, I + trow, the transformation will be complete." +</p> +<p> + When he returned with the remedy, Lord Glenallan was much better. The new + and unexpected light which Mr. Oldbuck had thrown upon the melancholy + history of his family had almost overpowered him. "You think, then, Mr. + Oldbuck—for you are capable of thinking, which I am not—you think, + then, that it is possible—that is, not impossible—my child may yet + live?" +</p> +<p> + "I think," said the Antiquary, "it is impossible that it could come to + any violent harm through your brother's means. He was known to be a gay + and dissipated man, but not cruel nor dishonourable; nor is it possible, + that, if he had intended any foul play, he would have placed himself so + forward in the charge of the infant, as I will prove to your lordship he + did." +</p> +<p> + So saying, Mr. Oldbuck opened a drawer of the cabinet of his ancestor + Aldobrand, and produced a bundle of papers tied with a black ribband, and + labelled,—Examinations, etc., taken by Jonathan Oldbuck, J. P., upon the + 18th of February, 17—; a little under was written, in a small hand, + <i>Eheu Evelina</i>! The tears dropped fast from the Earl's eyes, as he + endeavoured, in vain, to unfasten the knot which secured these documents. +</p> +<p> + "Your lordship," said Mr. Oldbuck, "had better not read these at present. + Agitated as you are, and having much business before you, you must not + exhaust your strength. Your brother's succession is now, I presume, your + own, and it will be easy for you to make inquiry among his servants and + retainers, so as to hear where the child is, if, fortunately, it shall be + still alive." +</p> +<p> + "I dare hardly hope it," said the Earl, with a deep sigh. "Why should my + brother have been silent to me?" +</p> +<p> + "Nay, my lord, why should he have communicated to your lordship the + existence of a being whom you must have supposed the offspring of"— +</p> +<p> + "Most true—there is an obvious and a kind reason for his being silent. + If anything, indeed, could have added to the horror of the ghastly dream + that has poisoned my whole existence, it must have been the knowledge + that such a child of misery existed." +</p> +<p> + "Then," continued the Antiquary, "although it would be rash to conclude, + at the distance of more than twenty years, that your son must needs be + still alive because he was not destroyed in infancy, I own I think you + should instantly set on foot inquiries." +</p> +<p> + "It shall be done," replied Lord Glenallan, catching eagerly at the hope + held out to him, the first he had nourished for many years;—"I will + write to a faithful steward of my father, who acted in the same capacity + under my brother Neville—But, Mr. Oldbuck, I am not my brother's heir." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed!—I am sorry for that, my lord—it is a noble estate, and the + ruins of the old castle of Neville's-Burgh alone, which are the most + superb relics of Anglo-Norman architecture in that part of the country, + are a possession much to be coveted. I thought your father had no other + son or near relative." +</p> +<p> + "He had not, Mr. Oldbuck," replied Lord Glenallan; "but my brother + adopted views in politics, and a form of religion, alien from those which + had been always held by our house. Our tempers had long differed, nor did + my unhappy mother always think him sufficiently observant to her. In + short, there was a family quarrel, and my brother, whose property was at + his own free disposal, availed himself of the power vested in him to + choose a stranger for his heir. It is a matter which never struck me as + being of the least consequence—for if worldly possessions could + alleviate misery, I have enough and to spare. But now I shall regret it, + if it throws any difficulty in the way of our inquiries—and I bethink me + that it may; for in case of my having a lawful son of my body, and my + brother dying without issue, my father's possessions stood entailed upon + my son. It is not therefore likely that this heir, be he who he may, will + afford us assistance in making a discovery which may turn out so much to + his own prejudice." +</p> +<p> + "And in all probability the steward your lordship mentions is also in his + service," said the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "It is most likely; and the man being a Protestant—how far it is safe to + entrust him"— +</p> +<p> + "I should hope, my lord," said Oldbuck gravely, "that a Protestant may be + as trustworthy as a Catholic. I am doubly interested in the Protestant + faith, my lord. My ancestor, Aldobrand Oldenbuck, printed the celebrated + Confession of Augsburg, as I can show by the original edition now in this + house." +</p> +<p> + "I have not the least doubt of what you say, Mr. Oldbuck," replied the + Earl, "nor do I speak out of bigotry or intolerance; but probably the + Protestant steward will favour the Protestant heir rather than the + Catholic—if, indeed, my son has been bred in his father's faith—or, + alas! if indeed he yet lives." +</p> +<p> + "We must look close into this," said Oldbuck, "before committing + ourselves. I have a literary friend at York, with whom I have long + corresponded on the subject of the Saxon horn that is preserved in the + Minster there; we interchanged letters for six years, and have only as + yet been able to settle the first line of the inscription. I will write + forthwith to this gentleman, Dr. Dryasdust, and be particular in my + inquiries concerning the character, etc., of your brother's heir, of the + gentleman employed in his affairs, and what else may be likely to further + your lordship's inquiries. In the meantime your lordship will collect the + evidence of the marriage, which I hope can still be recovered?" +</p> +<p> + "Unquestionably," replied the Earl: "the witnesses, who were formerly + withdrawn from your research, are still living. My tutor, who solemnized + the marriage, was provided for by a living in France, and has lately + returned to this country as an emigrant, a victim of his zeal for + loyalty, legitimacy, and religion." +</p> +<p> + "That's one lucky consequence of the French, revolution, my lord—you + must allow that, at least," said Oldbuck: "but no offence; I will act as + warmly in your affairs as if I were of your own faith in politics and + religion. And take my advice—If you want an affair of consequence + properly managed, put it into the hands of an antiquary; for as they are + eternally exercising their genius and research upon trifles, it is + impossible they can be baffled in affairs of importance;—use makes + perfect—and the corps that is most frequently drilled upon the parade, + will be most prompt in its exercise upon the day of battle. And, talking + upon that subject, I would willingly read to your lordship, in order to + pass away the time betwixt and supper"— +</p> +<p> + "I beg I may not interfere with family arrangements," said Lord + Glenallan, "but I never taste anything after sunset." +</p> +<p> + "Nor I either, my lord," answered his host, "notwithstanding it is said + to have been the custom of the ancients. But then I dine differently from + your lordship, and therefore am better enabled to dispense with those + elaborate entertainments which my womankind (that is, my sister and + niece, my lord) are apt to place on the table, for the display rather of + their own house-wifery than the accommodation of our wants. However, a + broiled bone, or a smoked haddock, or an oyster, or a slice of bacon of + our own curing, with a toast and a tankard—or something or other of that + sort, to close the orifice of the stomach before going to bed, does not + fall under my restriction, nor, I hope, under your lordship's." +</p> +<p> + "My no-supper is literal, Mr. Oldbuck; but I will attend you at your meal + with pleasure." +</p> +<p> + "Well, my lord," replied the Antiquary, "I will endeavour to entertain + your ears at least, since I cannot banquet your palate. What I am about + to read to your lordship relates to the upland glens." +</p> +<p> + Lord Glenallan, though he would rather have recurred to the subject of + his own uncertainties, was compelled to make a sign of rueful civility + and acquiescence. +</p> +<p> + The Antiquary, therefore, took out his portfolio of loose sheets, and + after premising that the topographical details here laid down were + designed to illustrate a slight essay upon castrametation, which had been + read with indulgence at several societies of Antiquaries, he commenced as + follows: "The subject, my lord, is the hill-fort of Quickens-bog, with + the site of which your lordship is doubtless familiar—it is upon your + store-farm of Mantanner, in the barony of Clochnaben." +</p> +<p> + "I think I have heard the names of these places," said the Earl, in + answer to the Antiquary's appeal. +</p> +<p> + "Heard the name? and the farm brings him six hundred a-year—O Lord!" +</p> +<p> + Such was the scarce-subdued ejaculation of the Antiquary. But his + hospitality got the better of his surprise, and he proceeded to read his + essay with an audible voice, in great glee at having secured a patient, + and, as he fondly hoped, an interested hearer. +</p> +<p> + "Quickens-bog may at first seem to derive its name from the plant + <i>Quicken,</i> by which, <i>Scottice,</i> we understand couch-grass, dog-grass, or + the <i>Triticum repens</i> of Linnaeus, and the common English monosyllable + <i>Bog,</i> by which we mean, in popular language, a marsh or morass—in + Latin, <i>Palus.</i> But it may confound the rash adopters of the more obvious + etymological derivations, to learn that the couch-grass or dog-grass, or, + to speak scientifically, the <i>Triticum repens</i> of Linnaeus, does not grow + within a quarter of a mile of this castrum or hill-fort, whose ramparts + are uniformly clothed with short verdant turf; and that we must seek a + bog or <i>palus</i> at a still greater distance, the nearest being that of + Gird-the-mear, a full half-mile distant. The last syllable, <i>bog,</i> is + obviously, therefore, a mere corruption of the Saxon <i>Burgh,</i> which we + find in the various transmutations of <i>Burgh, Burrow, Brough, Bruff, + Buff,</i> and <i>Boff,</i> which last approaches very near the sound in + question—since, supposing the word to have been originally <i>borgh,</i> which is the + genuine Saxon spelling, a slight change, such as modern organs too often + make upon ancient sounds, will produce first <i>Bogh,</i> and then, <i>elisa H,</i> + or compromising and sinking the guttural, agreeable to the common + vernacular practice, you have either <i>Boff</i> or <i>Bog</i> as it happens. The + word <i>Quickens</i> requires in like manner to be altered,—decomposed, as it + were,—and reduced to its original and genuine sound, ere we can discern + its real meaning. By the ordinary exchange of the <i>Qu</i> into <i>Wh,</i> + familiar to the rudest tyro who has opened a book of old Scottish poetry, + we gain either Whilkens, or Whichensborgh—put we may suppose, by way of + question, as if those who imposed the name, struck with the extreme + antiquity of the place, had expressed in it an interrogation, To whom did + this fortress belong?'—Or, it might be <i>Whackens-burgh,</i> from the Saxon + <i>Whacken,</i> to strike with the hand, as doubtless the skirmishes near a + place of such apparent consequence must have legitimated such a + derivation," etc. etc. etc. +</p> +<p> + I will be more merciful to my readers than Oldbuck was to his guest; for, + considering his opportunities of gaining patient attention from a person + of such consequence as Lord Glenallan were not many, he used, or rather + abused, the present to the uttermost. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0015"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER FIFTEENTH. +</h2> +<pre> + Crabbed age and youth + Cannot live together:— + Youth is full of pleasance, + Age is full of care; + Youth like summer morn, + Age like winter weather; + Youth like summer brave, + Age like winter bare. + Shakspeare. +</pre> +<p> + In the morning of the following day, the Antiquary, who was something of + a sluggard, was summoned from his bed a full hour earlier than his custom + by Caxon. "What's the matter now?" he exclaimed, yawning and stretching + forth his hand to the huge gold repeater, which, bedded upon his India + silk handkerchief, was laid safe by his pillow—"what's the matter now, + Caxon?—it can't be eight o'clock yet." +</p> +<p> + "Na, sir,—but my lord's man sought me out, for he fancies me your + honour's valley-de-sham,—and sae I am, there's nae doubt o't, baith your + honour's and the minister's—at least ye hae nae other that I ken o'—and + I gie a help to Sir Arthur too, but that's mair in the way o' my + profession." +</p> +<p> + "Well, well—never mind that," said the Antiquary—"happy is he that is + his own valley-de-sham, as you call it—But why disturb my morning's + rest?" +</p> +<p> + "Ou, sir, the great man's been up since peep o' day, and he's steered the + town to get awa an express to fetch his carriage, and it will be here + briefly, and he wad like to see your honour afore he gaes awa." +</p> +<p> + "Gadso!" ejaculated Oldbuck, "these great men use one's house and time as + if they were their own property. Well, it's once and away. Has Jenny come + to her senses yet, Caxon?" +</p> +<p> + "Troth, sir, but just middling," replied the barber; "she's been in a + swither about the jocolate this morning, and was like to hae toomed it a' + out into the slap-bason, and drank it hersell in her ecstacies—but she's + won ower wi't, wi' the help o' Miss M'Intyre." +</p> +<p> + "Then all my womankind are on foot and scrambling, and I must enjoy my + quiet bed no longer, if I would have a well-regulated house—Lend me my + gown. And what are the news at Fairport?" +</p> +<p> + "Ou, sir, what can they be about but this grand news o' my lord," + answered the old man, "that hasna been ower the door-stane, they threep + to me, for this twenty years—this grand news of his coming to visit your + honour?" +</p> +<p> + "Aha!" said Monkbarns; "and what do they say of that, Caxon?" +</p> +<p> + "'Deed, sir, they hae various opinions. Thae fallows, that are the + democraws, as they ca' them, that are again' the king and the law, and + hairpowder and dressing o' gentlemen's wigs—a wheen blackguards—they + say he's come doun to speak wi' your honour about bringing doun his hill + lads and Highland tenantry to break up the meetings of the Friends o' the + People;—and when I said your honour never meddled wi' the like o' sic + things where there was like to be straiks and bloodshed, they said, if ye + didna, your nevoy did, and that he was weel ken'd to be a kingsman that + wad fight knee-deep, and that ye were the head and he was the hand, and + that the Yerl was to bring out the men and the siller." +</p> +<p> + "Come," said the Antiquary, laughing—"I am glad the war is to cost me + nothing but counsel." +</p> +<p> + "Na, na," said Caxon—"naebody thinks your honour wad either fight + yoursell, or gie ony feck o' siller to ony side o' the question." +</p> +<p> + "Umph! well, that's the opinion of the democraws, as you call them—What + say the rest o' Fairport?" +</p> +<p> + "In troth," said the candid reporter, "I canna say it's muckle better. + Captain Coquet, of the volunteers—that's him that's to be the new + collector,—and some of the other gentlemen of the Blue and a' Blue Club, + are just saying it's no right to let popists, that hae sae mony French + friends as the Yerl of Glenallan, gang through the country, and—but your + honour will maybe be angry?" +</p> +<p> + "Not I, Caxon," said Oldbuck; "fire away as if you were Captain Coquet's + whole platoon—I can stand it." +</p> +<p> + "Weel then, they say, sir, that as ye didna encourage the petition about + the peace, and wadna petition in favour of the new tax, and as you were + again' bringing in the yeomanry at the meal mob, but just for settling + the folk wi' the constables—they say ye're no a gude friend to + government; and that thae sort o' meetings between sic a powerfu' man as + the Yerl, and sic a wise man as you,—Od they think they suld be lookit + after; and some say ye should baith be shankit aff till Edinburgh + Castle." +</p> +<p> + "On my word," said the Antiquary, "I am infinitely obliged to my + neighbours for their good opinion of me! And so I, that have never + interfered with their bickerings, but to recommend quiet and moderate + measures, am given up on both sides as a man very likely to commit high + treason, either against King or People?—Give me my coat, Caxon—give me + my coat;—it's lucky I live not in their report. Have you heard anything + of Taffril and his vessel?" +</p> +<p> + Caxon's countenance fell.—"Na, sir, and the winds hae been high, and + this is a fearfu' coast to cruise on in thae eastern gales,—the + headlands rin sae far out, that a veshel's embayed afore I could sharp a + razor; and then there's nae harbour or city of refuge on our coast—a' + craigs and breakers;—a veshel that rins ashore wi' us flees asunder like + the powther when I shake the pluff—and it's as ill to gather ony o't + again. I aye tell my daughter thae things when she grows wearied for a + letter frae Lieutenant Taffril—It's aye an apology for him. Ye sudna + blame him, says I, hinny, for ye little ken what may hae happened." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, ay, Caxon, thou art as good a comforter as a valet-de-chambre.—Give + me a white stock, man,—dye think I can go down with a handkerchief about + my neck when I have company?" +</p> +<p> + "Dear sir, the Captain says a three-nookit hankercher is the maist + fashionable overlay, and that stocks belang to your honour and me that + are auld warld folk. I beg pardon for mentioning us twa thegither, but it + was what he said." +</p> +<p> + "The Captain's a puppy, and you are a goose, Caxon." +</p> +<p> + "It's very like it may be sae," replied the acquiescent barber: "I am + sure your honour kens best." +</p> +<p> + Before breakfast, Lord Glenallan, who appeared in better spirits than he + had evinced in the former evening, went particularly through the various + circumstances of evidence which the exertions of Oldbuck had formerly + collected; and pointing out the means which he possessed of completing + the proof of his marriage, expressed his resolution instantly to go + through the painful task of collecting and restoring the evidence + concerning the birth of Eveline Neville, which Elspeth had stated to be + in his mother's possession. +</p> +<p> + "And yet, Mr. Oldbuck," he said, "I feel like a man who receives + important tidings ere he is yet fully awake, and doubt whether they refer + to actual life, or are not rather a continuation of his dream. This + woman—this Elspeth,—she is in the extremity of age, and approaching in + many respects to dotage. Have I not—it is a hideous question—have I not + been hasty in the admission of her present evidence, against that which + she formerly gave me to a very—very different purpose?" +</p> +<p> + Mr. Oldbuck paused a moment, and then answered with firmness—"No, my + lord; I cannot think you have any reason to suspect the truth of what she + has told you last, from no apparent impulse but the urgency of + conscience. Her confession was voluntary, disinterested, distinct, + consistent with itself, and with all the other known circumstances of the + case. I would lose no time, however, in examining and arranging the other + documents to which she has referred; and I also think her own statement + should be taken down, if possible in a formal manner. We thought of + setting about this together. But it will be a relief to your lordship, + and moreover have a more impartial appearance, were I to attempt the + investigation alone in the capacity of a magistrate. I will do this—at + least I will attempt it, so soon as I shall see her in a favourable state + of mind to undergo an examination." +</p> +<p> + Lord Glenallan wrung the Antiquary's hand in token of grateful + acquiescence. "I cannot express to you," he said, "Mr. Oldbuck, how much + your countenance and cooperation in this dark and most melancholy + business gives me relief and confidence. I cannot enough applaud myself + for yielding to the sudden impulse which impelled me, as it were, to drag + you into my confidence, and which arose from the experience I had + formerly of your firmness in discharge of your duty as a magistrate, and + as a friend to the memory of the unfortunate. Whatever the issue of these + matters may prove,—and I would fain hope there is a dawn breaking on the + fortunes of my house, though I shall not live to enjoy its light,—but + whatsoever be the issue, you have laid my family and me under the most + lasting obligation." +</p> +<p> + "My lord," answered the Antiquary, "I must necessarily have the greatest + respect for your lordship's family, which I am well aware is one of the + most ancient in Scotland, being certainly derived from Aymer de Geraldin, + who sat in parliament at Perth, in the reign of Alexander II., and who by + the less vouched, yet plausible tradition of the country, is said to have + been descended from the Marmor of Clochnaben. Yet, with all my veneration + for your ancient descent, I must acknowledge that I find myself still + more bound to give your lordship what assistance is in my limited power, + from sincere sympathy with your sorrows, and detestation at the frauds + which have so long been practised upon you.—But, my lord, the matin meal + is, I see, now prepared—Permit me to show your lordship the way through + the intricacies of my <i>cenobitium,</i> which is rather a combination of + cells, jostled oddly together, and piled one upon the top of the other, + than a regular house. I trust you will make yourself some amends for the + spare diet of yesterday." +</p> +<p> + But this was no part of Lord Glenallan's system. Having saluted the + company with the grave and melancholy politeness which distinguished his + manners, his servant placed before him a slice of toasted bread, with a + glass of fair water, being the fare on which he usually broke his fast. + While the morning's meal of the young soldier and the old Antiquary was + despatched in much more substantial manner, the noise of wheels was + heard. +</p> +<p> + "Your lordship's carriage, I believe," said Oldbuck, stepping to the + window. "On my word, a handsome <i>quadriga,</i>—for such, according to the + best <i>scholium,</i> was the <i>vox signata</i> of the Romans for a chariot which, + like that of your lordship, was drawn by four horses." +</p> +<p> + "And I will venture to say," cried Hector, eagerly gazing from the + window, "that four handsomer or better-matched bays never were put in + harness—What fine forehands!—what capital chargers they would make!— + Might I ask if they are of your lordship's own breeding?" +</p> +<p> + "I—I—rather believe so," said Lord Glenallan; "but I have been so + negligent of my domestic matters, that I am ashamed to say I must apply + to Calvert" (looking at the domestic). +</p> +<p> + "They are of your lordship's own breeding," said Calvert, "got by Mad Tom + out of Jemina and Yarico, your lordship's brood mares." +</p> +<p> + "Are there more of the set?" said Lord Glenallan. +</p> +<p> + "Two, my lord,—one rising four, the other five off this grass, both very + handsome." +</p> +<p> + "Then let Dawkins bring them down to Monkbarns to-morrow," said the + Earl—"I hope Captain M'Intyre will accept them, if they are at all fit for + service." +</p> +<p> + Captain M'Intyre's eyes sparkled, and he was profuse in grateful + acknowledgments; while Oldbuck, on the other hand, seizing the Earl's + sleeve, endeavoured to intercept a present which boded no good to his + corn-chest and hay-loft. +</p> +<p> + "My lord—my lord—much obliged—much obliged—But Hector is a + pedestrian, and never mounts on horseback in battle—he is a Highland + soldier, moreover, and his dress ill adapted for cavalry service. Even + Macpherson never mounted his ancestors on horseback, though he has the + impudence to talk of their being car-borne—and that, my lord, is what is + running in Hector's head—it is the vehicular, not the equestrian + exercise, which he envies— +</p> +<pre> + Sunt quos curriculo pulverem Olympicum + Collegisse juvat. +</pre> +<p> + His noddle is running on a curricle, which he has neither money to buy, + nor skill to drive if he had it; and I assure your lordship, that the + possession of two such quadrupeds would prove a greater scrape than any + of his duels, whether with human foe or with my friend the <i>phoca.</i>" +</p> +<p> + "You must command us all at present, Mr. Oldbuck," said the Earl + politely; "but I trust you will not ultimately prevent my gratifying my + young friend in some way that may afford him pleasure." +</p> +<p> + "Anything useful, my lord," said Oldbuck, "but no <i>curriculum</i>—I protest + he might as rationally propose to keep a <i>quadriga</i> at once—And now I + think of it, what is that old post-chaise from Fairport come jingling + here for?—I did not send for it." +</p> +<p> + "<i>I</i> did, sir," said Hector, rather sulkily, for he was not much + gratified by his uncle's interference to prevent the Earl's intended + generosity, nor particularly inclined to relish either the disparagement + which he cast upon his skill as a charioteer, or the mortifying allusion + to his bad success in the adventures of the duel and the seal. +</p> +<p> + "You did, sir?" echoed the Antiquary, in answer to his concise + information. "And pray, what may be your business with a post-chaise? Is + this splendid equipage—this <i>biga,</i> as I may call it—to serve for an + introduction to a <i>quadriga</i> or a <i>curriculum</i>?" +</p> +<p> + "Really, sir," replied the young soldier, "if it be necessary to give you + such a specific explanation, I am going to Fairport on a little + business." +</p> +<p> + "Will you permit me to inquire into the nature of that business, Hector?" + answered his uncle, who loved the exercise of a little brief authority + over his relative. "I should suppose any regimental affairs might be + transacted by your worthy deputy the sergeant—an honest gentleman, who + is so good as to make Monkbarns his home since his arrival among us—I + should, I say, suppose that he may transact any business of yours, + without your spending a day's pay on two dog-horses, and such a + combination of rotten wood, cracked glass, and leather—such a skeleton + of a post-chaise, as that before the door." +</p> +<p> + "It is not regimental business, sir, that calls me; and, since you insist + upon knowing, I must inform you Caxon has brought word this morning that + old Ochiltree, the beggar, is to be brought up for examination to-day, + previous to his being committed for trial; and I'm going to see that the + poor old fellow gets fair play—that's all." +</p> +<p> + "Ay?—I heard something of this, but could not think it serious. And + pray, Captain Hector, who are so ready to be every man's second on all + occasions of strife, civil or military, by land, by water, or on the + sea-beach, what is your especial concern with old Edie Ochiltree?" +</p> +<p> + "He was a soldier in my father's company, sir," replied Hector; "and + besides, when I was about to do a very foolish thing one day, he + interfered to prevent me, and gave me almost as much good advice, sir, as + you could have done yourself." +</p> +<p> + "And with the same good effect, I dare be sworn for it—eh, Hector?— + Come, confess it was thrown away." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed it was, sir; but I see no reason that my folly should make me + less grateful for his intended kindness." +</p> +<p> + "Bravo, Hector! that's the most sensible thing I ever heard you say. But + always tell me your plans without reserve,—why, I will go with you + myself, man. I am sure the old fellow is not guilty, and I will assist + him in such a scrape much more effectually than you can do. Besides, it + will save thee half-a-guinea, my lad—a consideration which I heartily + pray you to have more frequently before your eyes." +</p> +<p> + Lord Glenallan's politeness had induced him to turn away and talk with + the ladies, when the dispute between the uncle and nephew appeared to + grow rather too animated to be fit for the ear of a stranger, but the + Earl mingled again in the conversation when the placable tone of the + Antiquary expressed amity. Having received a brief account of the + mendicant, and of the accusation brought against him, which Oldbuck did + not hesitate to ascribe to the malice of Dousterswivel, Lord Glenallan + asked, whether the individual in question had not been a soldier + formerly?—He was answered in the affirmative. +</p> +<p> + "Had he not," continued his Lordship, "a coarse blue coat, or gown, with + a badge?—was he not a tall, striking-looking old man, with grey beard + and hair, who kept his body remarkably erect, and talked with an air of + ease and independence, which formed a strong contrast to his profession?" +</p> +<p> + "All this is an exact picture of the man," refumed Oldbuck. +</p> +<p> + "Why, then," continued Lord Glenallan, "although I fear I can be of no + use to him in his present condition, yet I owe him a debt of gratitude + for being the first person who brought me some tidings of the utmost + importance. I would willingly offer him a place of comfortable + retirement, when he is extricated from his present situation." +</p> +<p> + "I fear, my lord," said Oldbuck, "he would have difficulty in reconciling + his vagrant habits to the acceptance of your bounty, at least I know the + experiment has been tried without effect. To beg from the public at large + he considers as independence, in comparison to drawing his whole support + from the bounty of an individual. He is so far a true philosopher, as to + be a contemner of all ordinary rules of hours and times. When he is + hungry he eats; when thirsty he drinks; when weary he sleeps; and with + such indifference with respect to the means and appliances about which we + make a fuss, that I suppose he was never ill dined or ill lodged in his + life. Then he is, to a certain extent, the oracle of the district through + which he travels—their genealogist, their newsman, their master of the + revels, their doctor at a pinch, or their divine;—I promise you he has + too many duties, and is too zealous in performing them, to be easily + bribed to abandon his calling. But I should be truly sorry if they sent + the poor light-hearted old man to lie for weeks in a jail. I am convinced + the confinement would break his heart." +</p> +<p> + Thus finished the conference. Lord Glenallan, having taken leave of the + ladies, renewed his offer to Captain M'Intyre of the freedom of his + manors for sporting, which was joyously accepted, +</p> +<p> + "I can only add," he said, "that if your spirits are not liable to be + damped by dull company, Glenallan House is at all times open to you. On + two days of the week, Friday and Saturday, I keep my apartment, which + will be rather a relief to you, as you will be left to enjoy the society + of my almoner, Mr. Gladsmoor, who is a scholar and a man of the world." +</p> +<p> + Hector, his heart exulting at the thoughts of ranging through the + preserves of Glenallan House, and over the well-protected moors of + Clochnaben—nay, joy of joys! the deer-forest of Strath-Bonnel—made many + acknowledgements of the honour and gratitude he felt. Mr. Oldbuck was + sensible of the Earl's attention to his nephew; Miss M'Intyre was pleased + because her brother was gratified; and Miss Griselda Oldbuck looked + forward with glee to the potting of whole bags of moorfowl and + black-game, of which Mr. Blattergowl was a professed admirer. Thus,— + which is always the case when a man of rank leaves a private family where + he has studied to appear obliging,—all were ready to open in praise of + the Earl as soon as he had taken his leave, and was wheeled off in his + chariot by the four admired bays. But the panegyric was cut short, for + Oldbuck and his nephew deposited themselves in the Fairport hack, which, + with one horse trotting, and the other urged to a canter, creaked, + jingled, and hobbled towards that celebrated seaport, in a manner that + formed a strong contrast to the rapidity and smoothness with which Lord + Glenallan's equipage had seemed to vanish from their eyes. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0016"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER SIXTEENTH. +</h2> +<pre> + Yes! I love justice well—as well as you do— + But since the good dame's blind, she shall excuse me + If, time and reason fitting, I prove dumb;— + The breath I utter now shall be no means + To take away from me my breath in future. + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + By dint of charity from the town's-people in aid of the load of + provisions he had brought with him into durance, Edie Ochiltree had + passed a day or two's confinement without much impatience, regretting his + want of freedom the less, as the weather proved broken and rainy. +</p> +<p> + "The prison," he said, "wasna sae dooms bad a place as it was ca'd. Ye + had aye a good roof ower your head to fend aff the weather, and, if the + windows werena glazed, it was the mair airy and pleasant for the summer + season. And there were folk enow to crack wi', and he had bread eneugh to + eat, and what need he fash himsell about the rest o't?" +</p> +<p> + The courage of our philosophical mendicant began, however, to abate, when + the sunbeams shone fair on the rusty bars of his grated dungeon, and a + miserable linnet, whose cage some poor debtor had obtained permission to + attach to the window, began to greet them with his whistle. +</p> +<p> + "Ye're in better spirits than I am," said Edie, addressing the bird, "for + I can neither whistle nor sing for thinking o' the bonny burnsides and + green shaws that I should hae been dandering beside in weather like this. + But hae—there's some crumbs t'ye, an ye are sae merry; and troth ye hae + some reason to sing an ye kent it, for your cage comes by nae faut o' + your ain, and I may thank mysell that I am closed up in this weary + place." +</p> +<p> + Ochiltree's soliloquy was disturbed by a peace-officer, who came to + summon him to attend the magistrate. So he set forth in awful procession + between two poor creatures, neither of them so stout as he was himself, + to be conducted into the presence of inquisitorial justice. The people, + as the aged prisoner was led along by his decrepit guards, exclaimed to + each other, "Eh! see sic a grey-haired man as that is, to have committed + a highway robbery, wi' ae fit in the grave!"—And the children + congratulated the officers, objects of their alternate dread and sport, + Puggie Orrock and Jock Ormston, on having a prisoner as old as + themselves. +</p> +<p> + Thus marshalled forward, Edie was presented (by no means for the first + time) before the worshipful Bailie Littlejohn, who, contrary to what his + name expressed, was a tall portly magistrate, on whom corporation crusts + had not been conferred in vain. He was a zealous loyalist of that zealous + time, somewhat rigorous and peremptory in the execution of his duty, and + a good deal inflated with the sense of his own power and importance;— + otherwise an honest, well-meaning, and useful citizen. +</p> +<p> + "Bring him in! bring him in!" he exclaimed. "Upon my word these are awful + and unnatural times! the very bedesmen and retainers of his Majesty are + the first to break his laws. Here has been an old Blue-Gown committing + robbery—I suppose the next will reward the royal charity which supplies + him with his garb, pension, and begging license, by engaging in + high-treason, or sedition at least—But bring him in." +</p> +<p> + Edie made his obeisance, and then stood, as usual, firm and erect, with + the side of his face turned a little upward, as if to catch every word + which the magistrate might address to him. To the first general + questions, which respected only his name and calling, the mendicant + answered with readiness and accuracy; but when the magistrate, having + caused his clerk to take down these particulars, began to inquire + whereabout the mendicant was on the night when Dousterswivel met with his + misfortune, Edie demurred to the motion. "Can ye tell me now, Bailie, you + that understands the law, what gude will it do me to answer ony o' your + questions?" +</p> +<p> + "Good?—no good certainly, my friend, except that giving a true account + of yourself, if you are innocent, may entitle me to set you at liberty." +</p> +<p> + "But it seems mair reasonable to me now, that you, Bailie, or anybody + that has anything to say against me, should prove my guilt, and no to be + bidding me prove my innocence." +</p> +<p> + "I don't sit here," answered the magistrate, "to dispute points of law + with you. I ask you, if you choose to answer my question, whether you + were at Ringan Aikwood, the forester's, upon the day I have specified?" +</p> +<p> + "Really, sir, I dinna feel myself called on to remember," replied the + cautious bedesman. +</p> +<p> + "Or whether, in the course of that day or night," continued the + magistrate, "you saw Steven, or Steenie, Mucklebackit?—you knew him, I + suppose?" +</p> +<p> + "O, brawlie did I ken Steenie, puir fallow," replied the prisoner;—"but + I canna condeshend on ony particular time I have seen him lately." +</p> +<p> + "Were you at the ruins of St. Ruth any time in the course of that + evening?" +</p> +<p> + "Bailie Littlejohn," said the mendicant, "if it be your honour's + pleasure, we'll cut a lang tale short, and I'll just tell ye, I am no + minded to answer ony o' thae questions—I'm ower auld a traveller to let + my tongue bring me into trouble." +</p> +<p> + "Write down," said the magistrate, "that he declines to answer all + interrogatories, in respect that by telling the truth he might be brought + to trouble." +</p> +<p> + "Na, na," said Ochiltree, "I'll no hae that set down as ony part o' my + answer—but I just meant to say, that in a' my memory and practice, I + never saw ony gude come o' answering idle questions." +</p> +<p> + "Write down," said the Bailie, "that, being acquainted with judicial + interrogatories by long practice, and having sustained injury by + answering questions put to him on such occasions, the declarant refuses" +</p> +<p> + "Na, na, Bailie," reiterated Edie, "ye are no to come in on me that gait + neither." +</p> +<p> + "Dictate the answer yourself then, friend," said the magistrate, "and the + clerk will take it down from your own mouth." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, ay," said Edie—"that's what I ca' fair play; I'se do that without + loss o' time. Sae, neighbour, ye may just write down, that Edie + Ochiltree, the declarant, stands up for the liberty—na, I maunna say + that neither—I am nae liberty-boy—I hae fought again' them in the riots + in Dublin—besides, I have ate the King's bread mony a day. Stay, let me + see. Ay—write that Edie Ochiltree, the Blue-Gown, stands up for the + prerogative—(see that ye spell that word right—it's a lang ane)—for + the prerogative of the subjects of the land, and winna answer a single + word that sall be asked at him this day, unless he sees a reason fort. + Put down that, young man." +</p> +<p> + "Then, Edie," said the magistrate, "since you will give no information on + the subject, I must send you back to prison till you shall be delivered + in due course of law." +</p> +<p> + "Aweel, sir, if it's Heaven's will and man's will, nae doubt I maun + submit," replied the mendicant. "I hae nae great objection to the prison, + only that a body canna win out o't; and if it wad please you as weel, + Bailie, I wad gie you my word to appear afore the Lords at the Circuit, + or in ony other coart ye like, on ony day ye are pleased to appoint." +</p> +<p> + "I rather think, my good friend," answered Bailie Littlejohn, "your word + might be a slender security where your neck may be in some danger. I am + apt to think you would suffer the pledge to be forfeited. If you could + give me sufficient security, indeed"— +</p> +<p> + At this moment the Antiquary and Captain M'Intyre entered the + apartment.—"Good morning to you, gentlemen," said the magistrate; "you find me + toiling in my usual vocation—looking after the iniquities of the + people—labouring for the <i>respublica,</i> Mr. Oldbuck—serving the King our + master, Captain M'Intyre,—for I suppose you know I have taken up the + sword?" +</p> +<p> + "It is one of the emblems of justice, doubtless," answered the + Antiquary;—"but I should have thought the scales would have suited you + better, Bailie, especially as you have them ready in the warehouse." +</p> +<p> + "Very good, Monkbarns—excellent! But I do not take the sword up as + justice, but as a soldier—indeed I should rather say the musket and + bayonet—there they stand at the elbow of my gouty chair, for I am scarce + fit for drill yet—a slight touch of our old acquaintance <i>podagra;</i> I + can keep my feet, however, while our sergeant puts me through the manual. + I should like to know, Captain M'Intyre, if he follows the regulations + correctly—he brings us but awkwardly to the <i>present.</i>" And he hobbled + towards his weapon to illustrate his doubts and display his proficiency. +</p> +<p> + "I rejoice we have such zealous defenders, Bailie," replied Mr. Oldbuck; + "and I dare say Hector will gratify you by communicating his opinion on + your progress in this new calling. Why, you rival the Hecate' of the + ancients, my good sir—a merchant on the Mart, a magistrate in the + Townhouse, a soldier on the Links—<i>quid non pro patria?</i> But my business + is with the justice; so let commerce and war go slumber." +</p> +<p> + "Well, my good sir," said the Bailie, "and what commands have you for + me?" +</p> +<p> + "Why, here's an old acquaintance of mine, called Edie Ochiltree, whom + some of your myrmidons have mewed up in jail on account of an alleged + assault on that fellow Dousterswivel, of whose accusation I do not + believe one word." +</p> +<p> + The magistrate here assumed a very grave countenance. "You ought to have + been informed that he is accused of robbery, as well as assault—a very + serious matter indeed; it is not often such criminals come under my + cognizance." +</p> +<p> + "And," replied Oldbuck, "you are tenacious of the opportunity of making + the very most of such as occur. But is this poor old man's case really so + very bad?" +</p> +<p> + "It is rather out of rule," said the Bailie—"but as you are in the + commission, Monkbarns, I have no hesitation to show you Dousterswivel's + declaration, and the rest of the precognition." And he put the papers + into the Antiquary's hands, who assumed his spectacles, and sat down in a + corner to peruse them. +</p> +<p> + The officers, in the meantime, had directions to remove their prisoner + into another apartment; but before they could do so, M'Intyre took an + opportunity to greet old Edie, and to slip a guinea into his hand. +</p> +<p> + "Lord bless your honour!" said the old man; "it's a young soldier's gift, + and it should surely thrive wi' an auld ane. I'se no refuse it, though + it's beyond my rules; for if they steek me up here, my friends are like + eneugh to forget me—out o'sight out o'mind, is a true proverb; and it + wadna be creditable for me, that am the king's bedesman, and entitled to + beg by word of mouth, to be fishing for bawbees out at the jail window + wi' the fit o' a stocking, and a string." As he made this observation he + was conducted out of the apartment. +</p> +<p> + Mr. Dousterswivel's declaration contained an exaggerated account of the + violence he had sustained, and also of his loss. +</p> +<p> + "But what I should have liked to have asked him," said Monkbarns, "would + have been his purpose in frequenting the ruins of St. Ruth, so lonely a + place, at such an hour, and with such a companion as Edie Ochiltree. + There is no road lies that way, and I do not conceive a mere passion for + the picturesque would carry the German thither in such a night of storm + and wind. Depend upon it, he has been about some roguery, and in all + probability hath been caught in a trap of his own setting—<i>Nec lex + justitior ulla.</i>" +</p> +<p> + The magistrate allowed there was something mysterious in that + circumstance, and apologized for not pressing Dousterswivel, as his + declaration was voluntarily emitted. But for the support of the main + charge, he showed the declaration of the Aikwoods concerning the state in + which Dousterswivel was found, and establishing the important fact that + the mendicant had left the barn in which he was quartered, and did not + return to it again. Two people belonging to the Fairport undertaker, who + had that night been employed in attending the funeral of Lady Glenallan, + had also given declarations, that, being sent to pursue two suspicious + persons who left the ruins of St. Ruth as the funeral approached, and + who, it was supposed, might have been pillaging some of the ornaments + prepared for the ceremony, they had lost and regained sight of them more + than once, owing to the nature of the ground, which was unfavourable for + riding, but had at length fairly lodged them both in Mucklebackit's + cottage. And one of the men added, that "he, the declarant, having + dismounted from his horse, and gone close up to the window of the hut, he + saw the old Blue-Gown and young Steenie Mucklebackit, with others, eating + and drinking in the inside, and also observed the said Steenie + Mucklebackit show a pocket-book to the others;—and declarant has no + doubt that Ochiltree and Steenie Mucklebackit were the persons whom he + and his comrade had pursued, as above mentioned." And being interrogated + why he did not enter the said cottage, declares, "he had no warrant so to + do; and that as Mucklebackit and his family were understood to be + rough-handed folk, he, the declarant, had no desire to meddle or make + with their affairs, <i>Causa scientiae patet.</i> All which he declares to be + truth," etc. +</p> +<p> + "What do you say to that body of evidence against your friend?" said the + magistrate, when he had observed the Antiquary had turned the last leaf. +</p> +<p> + "Why, were it in the case of any other person, I own I should say it + looked, <i>prima facie,</i> a little ugly; but I cannot allow anybody to be in + the wrong for beating Dousterswivel—Had I been an hour younger, or had + but one single flash of your warlike genius, Bailie, I should have done + it myself long ago. He is <i>nebulo nebulonum,</i> an impudent, fraudulent, + mendacious quack, that has cost me a hundred pounds by his roguery, and + my neighbour Sir Arthur, God knows how much. And besides, Bailie, I do + not hold him to be a sound friend to Government." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed?" said Bailie Littlejohn; "if I thought that, it would alter the + question considerably." +</p> +<p> + "Right—for, in beating him," observed Oldbuck, "the bedesman must have + shown his gratitude to the king by thumping his enemy; and in robbing + him, he would only have plundered an Egyptian, whose wealth it is lawful + to spoil. Now, suppose this interview in the ruins of St. Ruth had + relation to politics,—and this story of hidden treasure, and so forth, + was a bribe from the other side of the water for some great man, or the + funds destined to maintain a seditious club?" +</p> +<p> + "My dear sir," said the magistrate, catching at the idea, "you hit my + very thoughts! How fortunate should I be if I could become the humble + means of sifting such a matter to the bottom!—Don't you think we had + better call out the volunteers, and put them on duty?" +</p> +<p> + "Not just yet, while <i>podagra</i> deprives them of an essential member of + their body. But will you let me examine Ochiltree?" +</p> +<p> + "Certainly; but you'll make nothing of him. He gave me distinctly to + understand he knew the danger of a judicial declaration on the part of an + accused person, which, to say the truth, has hanged many an honester man + than he is." +</p> +<p> + "Well, but, Bailie," continued Oldbuck, "you have no objection to let me + try him?" +</p> +<p> + "None in the world, Monkbarns. I hear the sergeant below—I'll rehearse + the manual in the meanwhile. Baby, carry my gun and bayonet down to the + room below—it makes less noise there when we ground arms." And so exit + the martial magistrate, with his maid behind him bearing his weapons. +</p> +<p> + "A good squire that wench for a gouty champion," observed Oldbuck.— + "Hector, my lad, hook on, hook on—Go with him, boy—keep him employed, + man, for half-an-hour or so—butter him with some warlike terms—praise + his dress and address." +</p> +<p> + Captain M'Intyre, who, like many of his profession, looked down with + infinite scorn on those citizen soldiers who had assumed arms without any + professional title to bear them, rose with great reluctance, observing + that he should not know what to say to Mr. Littlejohn; and that to see an + old gouty shop-keeper attempting the exercise and duties of a private + soldier, was really too ridiculous. +</p> +<p> + "It may be so, Hector," said the Antiquary, who seldom agreed with any + person in the immediate proposition which was laid down—"it may possibly + be so in this and some other instances; but at present the country + resembles the suitors in a small-debt court, where parties plead in + person, for lack of cash to retain the professed heroes of the bar. I am + sure in the one case we never regret the want of the acuteness and + eloquence of the lawyers; and so, I hope, in the other, we may manage to + make shift with our hearts and muskets, though we shall lack some of the + discipline of you martinets." +</p> +<p> + "I have no objection, I am sure, sir, that the whole world should fight + if they please, if they will but allow me to be quiet," said Hector, + rising with dogged reluctance. +</p> +<p> + "Yes, you are a very quiet personage indeed," said his uncle, "whose + ardour for quarrelling cannot pass so much as a poor <i>phoca</i> sleeping + upon the beach!" +</p> +<p> + But Hector, who saw which way the conversation was tending, and hated all + allusions to the foil he had sustained from the fish, made his escape + before the Antiquary concluded the sentence. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0017"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER SEVENTEENTH. +</h2> +<pre> + Well, well, at worst, 'tis neither theft nor coinage, + Granting I knew all that you charge me with. + What though the tomb hath borne a second birth, + And given the wealth to one that knew not on't, + Yet fair exchange was never robbery, + Far less pure bounty— + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + The Antiquary, in order to avail himself of the permission given him to + question the accused party, chose rather to go to the apartment in which + Ochiltree was detained, than to make the examination appear formal by + bringing him again into the magistrate's office. He found the old man + seated by a window which looked out on the sea; and as he gazed on that + prospect, large tears found their way, as if unconsciously, to his eye, + and from thence trickled down his cheeks and white beard. His features + were, nevertheless, calm and composed, and his whole posture and mien + indicated patience and resignation. Oldbuck had approached him without + being observed, and roused him out of his musing by saying kindly, "I am + sorry, Edie, to see you so much cast down about this matter." +</p> +<a name="image-0007"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/pb206.jpg" height="782" width="527" +alt="The Antiquary Visits Edie in Prison +"> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<p> + The mendicant started, dried his eyes very hastily with the sleeve of his + gown, and endeavouring to recover his usual tone of indifference and + jocularity, answered, but with a voice more tremulous than usual, "I + might weel hae judged, Monkbarns, it was you, or the like o' you, was + coming in to disturb me—for it's ae great advantage o' prisons and + courts o' justice, that ye may greet your een out an ye like, and nane o' + the folk that's concerned about them will ever ask you what it's for." +</p> +<p> + "Well, Edie," replied Oldbuck, "I hope your present cause of distress is + not so bad but it may be removed." +</p> +<p> + "And I had hoped, Monkbarns," answered the mendicant, in a tone of + reproach, "that ye had ken'd me better than to think that this bit + trifling trouble o' my ain wad bring tears into my auld een, that hae + seen far different kind o' distress.—Na, na!—But here's been the puir + lass, Caxon's daughter, seeking comfort, and has gotten unco little— + there's been nae speerings o' Taffril's gunbrig since the last gale; and + folk report on the key that a king's ship had struck on the Reef of + Rattray, and a' hands lost—God forbid! for as sure as you live, + Monkbarns, the puir lad Lovel, that ye liked sae weel, must have + perished." +</p> +<p> + "God forbid indeed!" echoed the Antiquary, turning pale—"I would rather + Monkbarns House were on fire. My poor dear friend and coadjutor! I will + down to the quay instantly." +</p> +<p> + "I'm sure yell learn naething mair than I hae tauld ye, sir," said + Ochiltree, "for the officer-folk here were very civil (that is, for the + like o' them), and lookit up ae their letters and authorities, and could + throw nae light on't either ae way or another." +</p> +<p> + "It can't be true! it shall not be true!" said the Antiquary, "And I + won't believe it if it were!—Taffril's an excellent sea man, and Lovel + (my poor Lovel!) has all the qualities of a safe and pleasant companion + by land or by sea—one, Edie, whom, from the ingenuousness of his + disposition, I would choose, did I ever go a sea-voyage (which I never + do, unless across the ferry), <i>fragilem mecum solvere phaselum,</i> to be + the companion of my risk, as one against whom the elements could nourish + no vengeance. No, Edie, it is not, and cannot be true—it is a fiction of + the idle jade Rumour, whom I wish hanged with her trumpet about her neck, + that serves only with its screech-owl tones to fright honest folks out of + their senses.—Let me know how you got into this scrape of your own." +</p> +<p> + "Are ye axing me as a magistrate, Monkbarns, or is it just for your ain + satisfaction!" +</p> +<p> + "For my own satisfaction solely," replied the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "Put up your pocket-book and your keelyvine pen then, for I downa speak + out an ye hae writing materials in your hands—they're a scaur to + unlearned folk like me—Od, ane o' the clerks in the neist room will + clink down, in black and white, as muckle as wad hang a man, before ane + kens what he's saying." +</p> +<p> + Monkbarns complied with the old man's humour, and put up his + memorandum-book. +</p> +<p> + Edie then went with great frankness through the part of the story already + known to the reader, informing the Antiquary of the scene which he had + witnessed between Dousterswivel and his patron in the ruins of St. Ruth, + and frankly confessing that he could not resist the opportunity of + decoying the adept once more to visit the tomb of Misticot, with the + purpose of taking a comic revenge upon him for his quackery. He had + easily persuaded Steenie, who was a bold thoughtless young fellow, to + engage in the frolic along with him, and the jest had been inadvertently + carried a great deal farther than was designed. Concerning the + pocket-book, he explained that he had expressed his surprise and sorrow + as soon as he found it had been inadvertently brought off: and that + publicly, before all the inmates of the cottage, Steenie had undertaken + to return it the next day, and had only been prevented by his untimely + fate. +</p> +<p> + The Antiquary pondered a moment, and then said, "Your account seems very + probable, Edie, and I believe it from what I know of the parties. But I + think it likely that you know a great deal more than you have thought it + proper to tell me, about this matter of the treasure trove—I suspect you + have acted the part of the Lar Familiaris in Plautus—a sort of Brownie, + Edie, to speak to your comprehension, who watched over hidden + treasures.—I do bethink me you were the first person + we met when Sir Arthur made his successful attack upon + Misticot's grave, and also that when the labourers began to flag, you, + Edie. were again the first to leap into the trench, and to make the + discovery of the treasure. Now you must explain all this to me, unless you + would have me use you as ill as Euclio does Staphyla in the <i>Aulularia.</i>" +</p> +<p> + "Lordsake, sir," replied the mendicant, "what do I ken about your + Howlowlaria?—it's mair like a dog's language than a man's." +</p> +<p> + "You knew, however, of the box of treasure being there?" continued + Oldbuck. +</p> +<p> + "Dear sir," answered Edie, assuming a countenance of great simplicity, + "what likelihood is there o'that? d'ye think sae puir an auld creature as + me wad hae kend o' sic a like thing without getting some gude out o't?— + and ye wot weel I sought nane and gat nane, like Michael Scott's man. + What concern could I hae wi't?" +</p> +<p> + "That's just what I want you to explain to me," said Oldbuck; "for I am + positive you knew it was there." +</p> +<p> + "Your honour's a positive man, Monkbarns—and, for a positive man, I must + needs allow ye're often in the right." +</p> +<p> + "You allow, then, Edie, that my belief is well founded?" +</p> +<p> + Edie nodded acquiescence. +</p> +<p> + "Then please to explain to me the whole affair from beginning to end," + said the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "If it were a secret o' mine, Monkbarns," replied the beggar, "ye suldna + ask twice; for I hae aye said ahint your back, that for a' the nonsense + maggots that ye whiles take into your head, ye are the maist wise and + discreet o' a' our country gentles. But I'se een be open-hearted wi' you, + and tell you that this is a friend's secret, and that they suld draw me + wi' wild horses, or saw me asunder, as they did the children of Ammon, + sooner than I would speak a word mair about the matter, excepting this, + that there was nae ill intended, but muckle gude, and that the purpose + was to serve them that are worth twenty hundred o' me. But there's nae + law, I trow, that makes it a sin to ken where ither folles siller is, if + we didna pit hand til't oursell?" +</p> +<p> + Oldbuck walked once or twice up and down the room in profound thought, + endeavouring to find some plausible reason for transactions of a nature + so mysterious—but his ingenuity was totally at fault. He then placed + himself before the prisoner. +</p> +<p> + "This story of yours, friend Edie, is an absolute enigma, and would + require a second OEdipus to solve it—who OEdipus was, I will tell you + some other time if you remind me—However, whether it be owing to the + wisdom or to the maggots with which you compliment me, I am strongly + disposed to believe that you have spoken the truth, the rather that you + have not made any of those obtestations of the superior powers, which I + observe you and your comrades always make use of when you mean to deceive + folks." (Here Edie could not suppress a smile.) "If, therefore, you will + answer me one question, I will endeavour to procure your liberation." +</p> +<p> + "If ye'll let me hear the question," said Edie, with the caution of a + canny Scotchman, "I'll tell you whether I'll answer it or no." +</p> +<p> + "It is simply," said the Antiquary, "Did Dousterswivel know anything + about the concealment of the chest of bullion?" +</p> +<p> + "He, the ill-fa'ard loon!" answered Edie, with much frankness of manner— + "there wad hae been little speerings o't had Dustansnivel ken'd it was + there—it wad hae been butter in the black dog's hause." +</p> +<p> + "I thought as much," said Oldbuck. "Well, Edie, if I procure your + freedom, you must keep your day, and appear to clear me of the bail-bond, + for these are not times for prudent men to incur forfeitures, unless you + can point out another <i>Aulam auri plenam quadrilibrem</i>—another <i>Search, + No. I.</i>" +</p> +<p> + "Ah!" said the beggar, shaking his head, "I doubt the bird's flown that + laid thae golden eggs—for I winna ca' her goose, though that's the gait + it stands in the story-buick—But I'll keep my day, Monkbarns; ye'se no + loss a penny by me—And troth I wad fain be out again, now the weather's + fine—and then I hae the best chance o' hearing the first news o' my + friends." +</p> +<p> + "Well, Edie, as the bouncing and thumping beneath has somewhat ceased, I + presume Bailie Littlejohn has dismissed his military preceptor, and has + retired from the labours of Mars to those of Themis—I will have some + conversation with him—But I cannot and will not believe any of those + wretched news you were telling me." +</p> +<p> + "God send your honour may be right!" said the mendicant, as Oldbuck left + the room. +</p> +<p> + The Antiquary found the magistrate, exhausted with the fatigues of the + drill, reposing in his gouty chair, humming the air, "How merrily we live + that soldiers be!" and between each bar comforting himself with a + spoonful of mock-turtle soup. He ordered a similar refreshment for + Oldbuck, who declined it, observing, that, not being a military man, he + did not feel inclined to break his habit of keeping regular hours for + meals—"Soldiers like you, Bailie, must snatch their food as they find + means and time. But I am sorry to hear ill news of young Taffril's brig." +</p> +<p> + "Ah, poor fellow!" said the bailie, "he was a credit to the town—much + distinguished on the first of June." +</p> +<p> + "But," said Oldbuck, "I am shocked to hear you talk of him in the + preterite tense." +</p> +<p> + "Troth, I fear there may be too much reason for it, Monkbarns;—and yet + let us hope the best. The accident is said to have happened in the + Rattray reef of rocks, about twenty miles to the northward, near + Dirtenalan Bay—I have sent to inquire about it—and your nephew run out + himself as if he had been flying to get the Gazette of a victory." +</p> +<p> + Here Hector entered, exclaiming as he came in, "I believe it's all a + damned lie—I can't find the least authority for it, but general rumour." +</p> +<p> + "And pray, Mr. Hector," said his uncle, "if it had been true, whose fault + would it have been that Lovel was on board?" +</p> +<p> + "Not mine, I am sure," answered Hector; "it would have been only my + misfortune." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed!" said his uncle, "I should not have thought of that." +</p> +<p> + "Why, sir, with all your inclination to find me in the wrong," replied + the young soldier, "I suppose you will own my intention was not to blame + in this case. I did my best to hit Lovel, and if I had been successful, + 'tis clear my scrape would have been his, and his scrape would have been + mine." +</p> +<p> + "And whom or what do you intend to hit now, that you are lugging with you + that leathern magazine there, marked Gunpowder?" +</p> +<p> + "I must be prepared for Lord Glenallan's moors on the twelfth, sir," said + M'Intyre. +</p> +<p> + "Ah, Hector! thy great <i>chasse,</i> as the French call it, would take place + best— +</p> +<pre> + Omne cum Proteus pecus agitaret altos + Visere montes— +</pre> +<p> + Could you meet but with a martial <i>phoca,</i> instead of an unwarlike + heath-bird." +</p> +<p> + "The devil take the seal, sir, or <i>phoca,</i> if you choose to call it so! + It's rather hard one can never hear the end of a little piece of folly + like that." +</p> +<p> + "Well, well," said Oldbuck, "I am glad you have the grace to be ashamed + of it—as I detest the whole race of Nimrods, I wish them all as well + matched. Nay, never start off at a jest, man—I have done with the + <i>phoca</i>—though, I dare say, the Bailie could tell us the value of + seal-skins just now." +</p> +<p> + "They are up," said the magistrate, "they are well up—the fishing has + been unsuccessful lately." +</p> +<p> + "We can bear witness to that," said the tormenting Antiquary, who was + delighted with the hank this incident had given him over the young + sportsman: One word more, Hector, and +</p> +<pre> + We'll hang a seal-skin on thy recreant limbs. +</pre> +<p> + Aha, my boy! Come, never mind it; I must go to business.—Bailie, a word + with you: you must take bail—moderate bail, you understand—for old + Ochiltree's appearance." +</p> +<p> + "You don't consider what you ask," said the Bailie; "the offence is + assault and robbery." +</p> +<p> + "Hush! not a word about it," said the Antiquary. "I gave you a hint + before—I will possess you more fully hereafter—I promise you, there is + a secret." +</p> +<p> + "But, Mr. Oldbuck, if the state is concerned, I, who do the whole + drudgery business here, really have a title to be consulted, and until I + am"— +</p> +<p> + "Hush! hush!" said the Antiquary, winking and putting his finger to his + nose,—"you shall have the full credit, the entire management, whenever + matters are ripe. But this is an obstinate old fellow, who will not hear + of two people being as yet let into his mystery, and he has not fully + acquainted me with the clew to Dousterswivel's devices." +</p> +<p> + "Aha! so we must tip that fellow the alien act, I suppose?" +</p> +<p> + "To say truth, I wish you would." +</p> +<p> + "Say no more," said the magistrate; "it shall forthwith be done—he shall + be removed <i>tanquam suspect</i>—I think that's one of your own phrases, + Monkbarns?" +</p> +<p> + "It is classical, Bailie—you improve." +</p> +<p> + "Why, public business has of late pressed upon me so much, that I have + been obliged to take my foreman into partnership. I have had two several + correspondences with the Under Secretary of State—one on the proposed + tax on Riga hemp-seed, and the other on putting down political societies. + So you might as well communicate to me as much as you know of this old + fellow's discovery of a plot against the state." +</p> +<p> + "I will, instantly, when I am master of it," replied Oldbuck—-"I hate + the trouble of managing such matters myself. Remember, however, I did not + say decidedly a plot against the state I only say I hope to discover, by + this man's means, a foul plot." +</p> +<p> + "If it be a plot at all, there must be treason in it, or sedition at + least," said the Bailie—"Will you bail him for four hundred merks?" +</p> +<p> + "Four hundred merks for an old Blue-Gown! Think on the act 1701 + regulating bail-bonds!—Strike off a cipher from the sum—I am content to + bail him for forty merks." +</p> +<p> + "Well, Mr. Oldbuck, everybody in Fairport is always willing to oblige + you—and besides, I know that you are a prudent man, and one that would + be as unwilling to lose forty, as four hundred merks. So I will accept + your bail, <i>meo periculo</i>—what say you to that law phrase again? I had + it from a learned counsel. I will vouch it, my lord, he said, <i>meo + periculo.</i>" +</p> +<p> + "And I will vouch for Edie Ochiltree, <i>meo periculo,</i> in like manner," + said Oldbuck. "So let your clerk draw out the bail-bond, and I will sign + it." +</p> +<p> + When this ceremony had been performed, the Antiquary communicated to Edie + the joyful tidings that he was once more at liberty, and directed him to + make the best of his way to Monkbarns House, to which he himself returned + with his nephew, after having perfected their good work. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0018"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER EIGHTEENTH. +</h2> +<pre> + Full of wise saws and modern instances. + As You Like It. +</pre> +<p> + "I wish to Heaven, Hector," said the Antiquary, next morning after + breakfast, "you would spare our nerves, and not be keeping snapping that + arquebuss of yours." +</p> +<p> + "Well, sir, I'm sure I'm sorry to disturb you," said his nephew, still + handling his fowling-piece;—"but it's a capital gun—it's a Joe Manton, + that cost forty guineas." +</p> +<p> + "A fool and his money are soon parted, nephew—there is a Joe Miller for + your Joe Manton," answered the Antiquary; "I am glad you have so many + guineas to throw away." +</p> +<p> + "Every one has their fancy, uncle,—you are fond of books." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, Hector," said the uncle, "and if my collection were yours, you would + make it fly to the gunsmith, the horse-market, the dog-breaker,— + <i>Coemptos undique nobiles libros—mutare loricis Iberis.</i>" +</p> +<p> + "I could not use your books, my dear uncle," said the young soldier, + "that's true; and you will do well to provide for their being in better + hands. But don't let the faults of my head fall on my heart—I would not + part with a Cordery that belonged to an old friend, to get a set of + horses like Lord Glenallan's." +</p> +<p> + "I don't think you would, lad—I don't think you would," said his + softening relative. "I love to tease you a little sometimes; it keeps up + the spirit of discipline and habit of subordination—You will pass your + time happily here having me to command you, instead of Captain, or + Colonel, or Knight in Arms,' as Milton has it; and instead of the + French," he continued, relapsing into his ironical humour, "you have the + <i>Gens humida ponti</i>—for, as Virgil says, +</p> +<pre> + Sternunt se somno diversae in littore phocae; +</pre> +<p> + which might be rendered, +</p> +<pre> + Here phocae slumber on the beach, + Within our Highland Hector's reach. +</pre> +<p> + Nay, if you grow angry, I have done. Besides, I see old Edie in the + court-yard, with whom I have business. Good-bye, Hector—Do you remember + how she splashed into the sea like her master Proteus, <i>et se jactu dedit + aequor in altum</i>?" +</p> +<p> + M'Intyre,—waiting, however, till the door was shut,—then gave way to + the natural impatience of his temper. +</p> +<p> + "My uncle is the best man in the world, and in his way the kindest; but + rather than hear any more about that cursed <i>phoca,</i> as he is pleased to + call it, I would exchange for the West Indies, and never see his face + again." +</p> +<p> + Miss M'Intyre, gratefully attached to her uncle, and passionately fond of + her brother, was, on such occasions, the usual envoy of reconciliation. + She hastened to meet her uncle on his return, before he entered the + parlour. +</p> +<p> + "Well, now, Miss Womankind, what is the meaning of that imploring + countenance?—has Juno done any more mischief?" +</p> +<p> + "No, uncle; but Juno's master is in such fear of your joking him about + the seal—I assure you, he feels it much more than you would wish;—it's + very silly of him, to be sure; but then you can turn everybody so sharply + into ridicule"— +</p> +<p> + "Well, my dear," answered Oldbuck, propitiated by the compliment, "I will + rein in my satire, and, if possible, speak no more of the <i>phoca</i>—I will + not even speak of sealing a letter, but say <i>umph,</i> and give a nod to you + when I want the wax-light—I am not <i>monitoribus asper,</i> but, Heaven + knows, the most mild, quiet, and easy of human beings, whom sister, + niece, and nephew, guide just as best pleases them." +</p> +<p> + With this little panegyric on his own docility, Mr. Oldbuck entered the + parlour, and proposed to his nephew a walk to the Mussel-crag. "I have + some questions to ask of a woman at Mucklebackit's cottage," he observed, + "and I would willingly have a sensible witness with me—so, for fault of + a better, Hector, I must be contented with you." +</p> +<p> + "There is old Edie, sir, or Caxon—could not they do better than me?" + answered M'Intyre, feeling somewhat alarmed at the prospect of a long + <i>tete-a-tete</i> with his uncle. +</p> +<p> + "Upon my word, young man, you turn me over to pretty companions, and I am + quite sensible of your politeness," replied Mr. Oldbuck. "No, sir, I + intend the old Blue-Gown shall go with me—not as a competent witness, + for he is, at present, as our friend Bailie Littlejohn says (blessings on + his learning!) <i>tanquam suspectus,</i> and you are <i>suspicione major,</i> as + our law has it." +</p> +<p> + "I wish I were a major, sir," said Hector, catching only the last, and, + to a soldier's ear, the most impressive word in the sentence,—"but, + without money or interest, there is little chance of getting the step." +</p> +<p> + "Well, well, most doughty son of Priam," said the Antiquary, "be ruled by + your friends, and there's no saying what may happen—Come away with me, + and you shall see what may be useful to you should you ever sit upon a + court-martial, sir." +</p> +<p> + "I have been on many a regimental court-martial, sir," answered Captain + M'Intyre. "But here's a new cane for you." +</p> +<p> + "Much obliged, much obliged." +</p> +<p> + "I bought it from our drum-major," added M'Intyre, "who came into our + regiment from the Bengal army when it came down the Red Sea. It was cut + on the banks of the Indus, I assure you." +</p> +<p> + "Upon my word, 'tis a fine ratan, and well replaces that which the <i>ph</i>— + Bah! what was I going to say?" +</p> +<p> + The party, consisting of the Antiquary, his nephew, and the old beggar, + now took the sands towards Mussel-crag—the former in the very highest + mood of communicating information, and the others, under a sense of + former obligation, and some hope for future favours, decently attentive + to receive it. The uncle and nephew walked together, the mendicant about + a step and a half behind, just near enough for his patron to speak to him + by a slight inclination of his neck, and without the trouble of turning + round. (Petrie, in his Essay on Good-breeding, dedicated to the + magistrates of Edinburgh, recommends, upon his own experience, as tutor + in a family of distinction, this attitude to all led captains, tutors, + dependants, and bottle-holders of every description. ) Thus escorted, the + Antiquary moved along full of his learning, like a lordly man of war, and + every now and then yawing to starboard and larboard to discharge a + broadside upon his followers. +</p> +<p> + "And so it is your opinion," said he to the mendicant, "that this + windfall—this <i>arca auri,</i> as Plautus has it, will not greatly avail Sir + Arthur in his necessities?" +</p> +<p> + "Unless he could find ten times as much," said the beggar, "and that I am + sair doubtful of;—I heard Puggie Orrock, and the tother thief of a + sheriff-officer, or messenger, speaking about it—and things are ill aff + when the like o' them can speak crousely about ony gentleman's affairs. I + doubt Sir Arthur will be in stane wa's for debt, unless there's swift + help and certain." +</p> +<p> + "You speak like a fool," said the Antiquary.—"Nephew, it is a remarkable + thing, that in this happy country no man can be legally imprisoned for + debt." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed, sir?" said M'Intyre; "I never knew that before—that part of our + law would suit some of our mess well." +</p> +<p> + "And if they arena confined for debt," said Ochiltree, "what is't that + tempts sae mony puir creatures to bide in the tolbooth o' Fairport + yonder?—they a' say they were put there by their creditors—Od! they + maun like it better than I do, if they're there o' free will." +</p> +<p> + "A very natural observation, Edie, and many of your betters would make + the same; but it is founded entirely upon ignorance of the feudal system. + Hector, be so good as to attend, unless you are looking out for another— + Ahem!" (Hector compelled himself to give attention at this hint. ) "And + you, Edie, it may be useful to you <i>reram cognoscere causas.</i> The nature + and origin of warrant for caption is a thing <i>haud alienum a Scaevolae + studiis.</i>—You must know then, once more, that nobody can be arrested in + Scotland for debt." +</p> +<p> + "I haena muckle concern wi' that, Monkbarns," said the old man, "for + naebody wad trust a bodle to a gaberlunzie." +</p> +<p> + "I pr'ythee, peace, man—As a compulsitor, therefore, of payment, that + being a thing to which no debtor is naturally inclined, as I have too + much reason to warrant from the experience I have had with my own,—we + had first the letters of four forms, a sort of gentle invitation, by + which our sovereign lord the king, interesting himself, as a monarch + should, in the regulation of his subjects' private affairs, at first by + mild exhortation, and afterwards by letters of more strict enjoinment and + more hard compulsion—What do you see extraordinary about that bird, + Hector?—it's but a seamaw." +</p> +<p> + "It's a pictarnie, sir," said Edie. +</p> +<p> + "Well, what an if it were—what does that signify at present?—But I see + you're impatient; so I will waive the letters of four forms, and come to + the modern process of diligence.—You suppose, now, a man's committed to + prison because he cannot pay his debt? Quite otherwise: the truth is, the + king is so good as to interfere at the request of the creditor, and to + send the debtor his royal command to do him justice within a certain + time—fifteen days, or six, as the case may be. Well, the man resists and + disobeys: what follows? Why, that he be lawfully and rightfully declared + a rebel to our gracious sovereign, whose command he has disobeyed, and + that by three blasts of a horn at the market-place of Edinburgh, the + metropolis of Scotland. And he is then legally imprisoned, not on account + of any civil debt, but because of his ungrateful contempt of the royal + mandate. What say you to that, Hector?—there's something you never knew + before."* +</p> +<p> + * The doctrine of Monkbarns on the origin of imprisonment for civil debt + in Scotland, may appear somewhat whimsical, but was referred to, and + admitted to be correct, by the Bench of the Supreme Scottish Court, on + 5th December 1828, in the case of Thom <i>v.</i> Black. In fact, the Scottish + law is in this particular more jealous of the personal liberty of the + subject than any other code in Europe. +</p> +<p> + "No, uncle; but, I own, if I wanted money to pay my debts, I would rather + thank the king to send me some, than to declare me a rebel for not doing + what I could not do." +</p> +<p> + "Your education has not led you to consider these things," replied his + uncle; "you are incapable of estimating the elegance of the legal + fiction, and the manner in which it reconciles that duress, which, for + the protection of commerce, it has been found necessary to extend towards + refractory debtors, with the most scrupulous attention to the liberty of + the subject." +</p> +<p> + "I don't know, sir," answered the unenlightened Hector; "but if a man + must pay his debt or go to jail, it signifies but little whether he goes + as a debtor or a rebel, I should think. But you say this command of the + king's gives a license of so many days—Now, egad, were I in the scrape, + I would beat a march and leave the king and the creditor to settle it + among themselves before they came to extremities." +</p> +<p> + "So wad I," said Edie; "I wad gie them leg-bail to a certainty." +</p> +<p> + "True," replied Monkbarns; "but those whom the law suspects of being + unwilling to abide her formal visit, she proceeds with by means of a + shorter and more unceremonious call, as dealing with persons on whom + patience and favour would be utterly thrown away." +</p> +<p> + "Ay," said Ochiltree, "that will be what they ca' the fugie-warrants—I + hae some skeel in them. There's Border-warrants too in the south country, + unco rash uncanny things;—I was taen up on ane at Saint James's Fair, + and keepit in the auld kirk at Kelso the haill day and night; and a cauld + goustie place it was, I'se assure ye.—But whatna wife's this, wi' her + creel on her back? It's puir Maggie hersell, I'm thinking." +</p> +<p> + It was so. The poor woman's sense of her loss, if not diminished, was + become at least mitigated by the inevitable necessity of attending to the + means of supporting her family; and her salutation to Oldbuck was made in + an odd mixture between the usual language of solicitation with which she + plied her customers, and the tone of lamentation for her recent calamity. +</p> +<p> + "How's a' wi' ye the day, Monkbarns? I havena had the grace yet to come + down to thank your honour for the credit ye did puir Steenie, wi' laying + his head in a rath grave, puir fallow. "—Here she whimpered and wiped + her eyes with the corner of her blue apron—"But the fishing comes on no + that ill, though the gudeman hasna had the heart to gang to sea himsell— + Atweel I would fain tell him it wad do him gude to put hand to wark—but + I'm maist fear'd to speak to him—and it's an unco thing to hear ane o' + us speak that gate o' a man—However, I hae some dainty caller haddies, + and they sall be but three shillings the dozen, for I hae nae pith to + drive a bargain ennow, and maun just tak what ony Christian body will + gie, wi' few words and nae flyting." +</p> +<p> + "What shall we do, Hector?" said Oldbuck, pausing: "I got into disgrace + with my womankind for making a bad bargain with her before. These + maritime animals, Hector, are unlucky to our family." +</p> +<p> + "Pooh, sir, what would you do?—give poor Maggie what she asks, or allow + me to send a dish of fish up to Monkbarns." +</p> +<p> + And he held out the money to her; but Maggie drew back her hand. "Na, na, + Captain; ye're ower young and ower free o' your siller—ye should never + tak a fish-wife's first bode; and troth I think maybe a flyte wi' the + auld housekeeper at Monkbarns, or Miss Grizel, would do me some gude—And + I want to see what that hellicate quean Jenny Ritherout's doing—folk + said she wasna weel—She'll be vexing hersell about Steenie, the silly + tawpie, as if he wad ever hae lookit ower his shouther at the like + o'her!—Weel, Monkbarns, they're braw caller haddies, and they'll bid me + unco little indeed at the house if ye want crappit-heads the day." +</p> +<p> + And so on she paced with her burden,—grief, gratitude for the sympathy + of her betters, and the habitual love of traffic and of gain, chasing + each other through her thoughts. +</p> +<p> + "And now that we are before the door of their hut," said Ochiltree, "I + wad fain ken, Monkbarns, what has gar'd ye plague yoursell wi' me a' this + length? I tell ye sincerely I hae nae pleasure in ganging in there. I + downa bide to think how the young hae fa'en on a' sides o' me, and left + me an useless auld stump wi' hardly a green leaf on't." +</p> +<p> + "This old woman," said Oldbuck, "sent you on a message to the Earl of + Glenallan, did she not?" +</p> +<p> + "Ay!" said the surprised mendicant; "how ken ye that sae weel?" +</p> +<p> + "Lord Glenallan told me himself," answered the Antiquary; "so there is no + delation—no breach of trust on your part; and as he wishes me to take + her evidence down on some important family matters, I chose to bring you + with me, because in her situation, hovering between dotage and + consciousness, it is possible that your voice and appearance may awaken + trains of recollection which I should otherwise have no means of + exciting. The human mind—what are you about, Hector?" +</p> +<p> + "I was only whistling for the dog, sir," replied the Captain "she always + roves too wide—I knew I should be troublesome to you." +</p> +<p> + "Not at all, not at all," said Oldbuck, resuming the subject of his + disquisition—"the human mind is to be treated like a skein of ravelled + silk, where you must cautiously secure one free end before you can make + any progress in disentangling it." +</p> +<p> + "I ken naething about that," said the gaberlunzie; "but an my auld + acquaintance be hersell, or anything like hersell, she may come to wind + us a pirn. It's fearsome baith to see and hear her when she wampishes + about her arms, and gets to her English, and speaks as if she were a + prent book, let a-be an auld fisher's wife. But, indeed, she had a grand + education, and was muckle taen out afore she married an unco bit beneath + hersell. She's aulder than me by half a score years—but I mind weel + eneugh they made as muckle wark about her making a half-merk marriage wi' + Simon Mucklebackit, this Saunders's father, as if she had been ane o' the + gentry. But she got into favour again, and then she lost it again, as I + hae heard her son say, when he was a muckle chield; and then they got + muckle siller, and left the Countess's land, and settled here. But things + never throve wi' them. Howsomever, she's a weel-educate woman, and an she + win to her English, as I hae heard her do at an orra time, she may come + to fickle us a'." +</p> +<a name="2HCH0019"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER NINETEENTH +</h2> +<pre> + Life ebbs from such old age, unmarked and silent, + As the slow neap-tide leaves yon stranded galley.— + Late she rocked merrily at the least impulse + That wind or wave could give; but now her keel + Is settling on the sand, her mast has ta'en + An angle with the sky, from which it shifts not. + Each wave receding shakes her less and less, + Till, bedded on the strand, she shall remain + Useless as motionless. + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + As the Antiquary lifted the latch of the hut, he was surprised to hear + the shrill tremulous voice of Elspeth chanting forth an old ballad in a + wild and doleful recitative. +</p> +<pre> + "The herring loves the merry moonlight, + The mackerel loves the wind, + But the oyster loves the dredging sang, + For they come of a gentle kind." +</pre> +<p> + A diligent collector of these legendary scraps of ancient poetry, his + foot refused to cross the threshold when his ear was thus arrested, and + his hand instinctively took pencil and memorandum-book. From time to time + the old woman spoke as if to the children—"Oh ay, hinnies, whisht! + whisht! and I'll begin a bonnier ane than that— +</p> +<pre> + "Now haud your tongue, baith wife and carle, + And listen, great and sma', + And I will sing of Glenallan's Earl + That fought on the red Harlaw. + + "The cronach's cried on Bennachie, + And doun the Don and a', + And hieland and lawland may mournfu' be + For the sair field of Harlaw.— +</pre> +<p> + I dinna mind the neist verse weel—my memory's failed, and theres unco + thoughts come ower me—God keep us frae temptation!" +</p> +<p> + Here her voice sunk in indistinct muttering. +</p> +<p> + "It's a historical ballad," said Oldbuck, eagerly, "a genuine and + undoubted fragment of minstrelsy! Percy would admire its simplicity— + Ritson could not impugn its authenticity." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, but it's a sad thing," said Ochiltree, "to see human nature sae far + owertaen as to be skirling at auld sangs on the back of a loss like + hers." +</p> +<p> + "Hush! hush!" said the Antiquary—"she has gotten the thread of the story + again. "—And as he spoke, she sung— +</p> +<pre> + "They saddled a hundred milk-white steeds, + They hae bridled a hundred black, + With a chafron of steel on each horse's head, + And a good knight upon his back. "— +</pre> +<p> + "Chafron!" exclaimed the Antiquary,—"equivalent, perhaps, to + <i>cheveron;</i>—the word's worth a dollar,"—and down it went in his red + book. +</p> +<pre> + "They hadna ridden a mile, a mile, + A mile, but barely ten, + When Donald came branking down the brae + Wi' twenty thousand men. + + "Their tartans they were waving wide, + Their glaives were glancing clear, + Their pibrochs rung frae side to side, + Would deafen ye to hear. + + "The great Earl in his stirrups stood + That Highland host to see: + Now here a knight that's stout and good + May prove a jeopardie: + + "What wouldst thou do, my squire so gay, + That rides beside my reyne, + Were ye Glenallan's Earl the day, + And I were Roland Cheyne? + + "To turn the rein were sin and shame, + To fight were wondrous peril, + What would ye do now, Roland Cheyne, + Were ye Glenallan's Earl?' +</pre> +<p> + Ye maun ken, hinnies, that this Roland Cheyne, for as poor and auld as I + sit in the chimney-neuk, was my forbear, and an awfu' man he was that + dayin the fight, but specially after the Earl had fa'en, for he blamed + himsell for the counsel he gave, to fight before Mar came up wi' Mearns, + and Aberdeen, and Angus." +</p> +<p> + Her voice rose and became more animated as she recited the warlike + counsel of her ancestor— +</p> +<pre> + "Were I Glenallan's Earl this tide, + And ye were Roland Cheyne, + The spur should be in my horse's side, + And the bridle upon his mane. + + "If they hae twenty thousand blades, + And we twice ten times ten, + Yet they hae but their tartan plaids, + And we are mail-clad men. + + "My horse shall ride through ranks sae rude, + As through the moorland fern, + Then neer let the gentle Norman blude + Grow cauld for Highland kerne.'" +</pre> +<p> + "Do you hear that, nephew?" said Oldbuck;—"you observe your Gaelic + ancestors were not held in high repute formerly by the Lowland warriors." +</p> +<p> + "I hear," said Hector, "a silly old woman sing a silly old song. I am + surprised, sir, that you, who will not listen to Ossian's songs of Selma, + can be pleased with such trash. I vow, I have not seen or heard a worse + halfpenny ballad; I don't believe you could match it in any pedlar's pack + in the country. I should be ashamed to think that the honour of the + Highlands could be affected by such doggrel. "—And, tossing up his head, + he snuffed the air indignantly. +</p> +<p> + Apparently the old woman heard the sound of their voices; for, ceasing + her song, she called out, "Come in, sirs, come in—good-will never halted + at the door-stane." +</p> +<p> + They entered, and found to their surprise Elspeth alone, sitting "ghastly + on the hearth," like the personification of Old Age in the Hunter's song + of the Owl,* "wrinkled, tattered, vile, dim-eyed, discoloured, torpid." +</p> +<p> + * See Mrs. Grant on the Highland Superstitions, vol. ii. p. 260, for this + fine translation from the Gaelic. +</p> +<p> + "They're a' out," she said, as they entered; "but an ye will sit a blink, + somebody will be in. If ye hae business wi' my gude-daughter, or my son, + they'll be in belyve,—I never speak on business mysell. Bairns, gie them + seats—the bairns are a' gane out, I trow,"—looking around her;—"I was + crooning to keep them quiet a wee while since; but they hae cruppen out + some gate. Sit down, sirs, they'll be in belyve;" and she dismissed her + spindle from her hand to twirl upon the floor, and soon seemed + exclusively occupied in regulating its motion, as unconscious of the + presence of the strangers as she appeared indifferent to their rank or + business there. +</p> +<p> + "I wish," said Oldbuck, "she would resume that canticle, or legendary + fragment. I always suspected there was a skirmish of cavalry before the + main battle of the Harlaw."* +</p> +<p> + * Note H. Battle of Harlaw. +</p> +<p> + "If your honour pleases," said Edie, "had ye not better proceed to the + business that brought us a' here? I'se engage to get ye the sang ony + time." +</p> +<p> + "I believe you are right, Edie—<i>Do manus</i>—I submit. But how shall we + manage? She sits there the very image of dotage. Speak to her, Edie—try + if you can make her recollect having sent you to Glenallan House." +</p> +<p> + Edie rose accordingly, and, crossing the floor, placed himself in the + same position which he had occupied during his former conversation with + her. "I'm fain to see ye looking sae weel, cummer; the mair, that the + black ox has tramped on ye since I was aneath your roof-tree." +</p> +<p> + "Ay," said Elspeth; but rather from a general idea of misfortune, than + any exact recollection of what had happened,—"there has been distress + amang us of late—I wonder how younger folk bide it—I bide it ill. I + canna hear the wind whistle, and the sea roar, but I think I see the + coble whombled keel up, and some o' them struggling in the waves!—Eh, + sirs; sic weary dreams as folk hae between sleeping and waking, before + they win to the lang sleep and the sound! I could amaist think whiles my + son, or else Steenie, my oe, was dead, and that I had seen the burial. + Isna that a queer dream for a daft auld carline? What for should ony o' + them dee before me?—it's out o' the course o' nature, ye ken." +</p> +<p> + "I think you'll make very little of this stupid old woman," said + Hector,—who still nourished, perhaps, some feelings of the dislike excited by + the disparaging mention of his countrymen in her lay—"I think you'll + make but little of her, sir; and it's wasting our time to sit here and + listen to her dotage." +</p> +<p> + "Hector," said the Antiquary, indignantly, "if you do not respect her + misfortunes, respect at least her old age and grey hairs: this is the + last stage of existence, so finely treated by the Latin poet— +</p> +<pre> + —Omni + Membrorum damno major dementia, quae nec + Nomina, servorum, nec vultus agnoscit amici, + Cum queis preterita coenavit nocte, nec illos + Quos genuit, quos eduxit." +</pre> +<p> + "That's Latin!" said Elspeth, rousing herself as if she attended to the + lines, which the Antiquary recited with great pomp of diction—"that's + Latin!" and she cast a wild glance around her—"Has there a priest fund + me out at last?" +</p> +<p> + "You see, nephew, her comprehension is almost equal to your own of that + fine passage." +</p> +<p> + "I hope you think, sir, that I knew it to be Latin as well as she did?" +</p> +<p> + "Why, as to that—But stay, she is about to speak." +</p> +<p> + "I will have no priest—none," said the beldam, with impotent vehemence; + "as I have lived I will die—none shall say that I betrayed my mistress, + though it were to save my soul!" +</p> +<p> + "That bespoke a foul conscience," said the mendicant;—"I wuss she wad + mak a clean breast, an it were but for her sake;" and he again assailed + her. +</p> +<p> + "Weel, gudewife, I did your errand to the Yerl." +</p> +<p> + "To what Earl? I ken nae Earl;—I ken'd a Countess ance—I wish to Heaven + I had never ken'd her! for by that acquaintance, neighbour, their cam,"— + and she counted her withered fingers as she spoke "first Pride, then + Malice, then Revenge, then False Witness; and Murder tirl'd at the + door-pin, if he camna ben. And werena thae pleasant guests, think ye, to + take up their quarters in ae woman's heart? I trow there was routh o' + company." +</p> +<p> + "But, cummer," continued the beggar, "it wasna the Countess of Glenallan + I meant, but her son, him that was Lord Geraldin." +</p> +<p> + "I mind it now," she said; "I saw him no that langsyne, and we had a + heavy speech thegither. Eh, sirs! the comely young lord is turned as auld + and frail as I am: it's muckle that sorrow and heartbreak, and crossing + of true love, will do wi' young blood. But suldna his mither hae lookit + to that hersell?—we were but to do her bidding, ye ken. I am sure + there's naebody can blame me—he wasna my son, and she was my mistress. + Ye ken how the rhyme says—I hae maist forgotten how to sing, or else the + tune's left my auld head— +</p> +<pre> + "He turn'd him right and round again, + Said, Scorn na at my mither; + Light loves I may get mony a ane, + But minnie neer anither. +</pre> +<p> + Then he was but of the half blude, ye ken, and her's was the right + Glenallan after a'. Na, na, I maun never maen doing and suffering for the + Countess Joscelin—never will I maen for that." +</p> +<p> + Then drawing her flax from the distaff, with the dogged air of one who is + resolved to confess nothing, she resumed her interrupted occupation. +</p> +<p> + "I hae heard," said the mendicant, taking his cue from what Oldbuck had + told him of the family history—"I hae heard, cummer, that some ill + tongue suld hae come between the Earl, that's Lord Geraldin, and his + young bride." +</p> +<p> + "Ill tongue?" she said in hasty alarm; "and what had she to fear frae an + ill tongue?—she was gude and fair eneugh—at least a' body said sae. But + had she keepit her ain tongue aff ither folk, she might hae been living + like a leddy for a' that's come and gane yet." +</p> +<p> + "But I hae heard say, gudewife," continued Ochiltree, "there was a + clatter in the country, that her husband and her were ower sibb when they + married." +</p> +<p> + "Wha durst speak o' that?" said the old woman hastily; "wha durst say + they were married?—wha ken'd o' that?—Not the Countess—not I. If they + wedded in secret, they were severed in secret—They drank of the + fountains of their ain deceit." +</p> +<p> + "No, wretched beldam!" exclaimed Oldbuck, who could keep silence no + longer, "they drank the poison that you and your wicked mistress prepared + for them." +</p> +<p> + "Ha, ha!" she replied, "I aye thought it would come to this. It's but + sitting silent when they examine me—there's nae torture in our days; and + if there is, let them rend me!—It's ill o' the vassal's mouth that + betrays the bread it eats." +</p> +<p> + "Speak to her, Edie," said the Antiquary; "she knows your voice, and + answers to it most readily." +</p> +<p> + "We shall mak naething mair out o' her," said Ochiltree. "When she has + clinkit hersell down that way, and faulded her arms, she winna speak a + word, they say, for weeks thegither. And besides, to my thinking, her + face is sair changed since we cam in. However, I'se try her ance mair to + satisfy your honour.—So ye canna keep in mind, cummer, that your auld + mistress, the Countess Joscelin, has been removed?" +</p> +<p> + "Removed!" she exclaimed; for that name never failed to produce its usual + effect upon her; "then we maun a' follow—a' maun ride when she is in the + saddle. Tell them to let Lord Geraldin ken we're on before them. Bring my + hood and scarf—ye wadna hae me gang in the carriage wi' my leddy, and my + hair in this fashion?" +</p> +<p> + She raised her shrivelled arms, and seemed busied like a woman who puts + on her cloak to go abroad, then dropped them slowly and stiffly; and the + same idea of a journey still floating apparently through her head, she + proceeded, in a hurried and interrupted manner,—"Call Miss Neville—What + do you mean by Lady Geraldin? I said Eveline Neville, not Lady Geraldin— + there's no Lady Geraldin; tell her that, and bid her change her wet gown, + and no' look sae pale. Bairn! what should she do wi' a bairn?—maidens + hae nane, I trow.—Teresa—Teresa—my lady calls us!—Bring a candle;— + the grand staircase is as mirk as a Yule midnight—We are coming, my + lady!"—With these words she sunk back on the settle, and from thence + sidelong to the floor. * +</p> +<p> + * Note I. Elspeth's death. +</p> +<pre> + Edie ran to support her, but hardly got her in his arms, before he said, +"It's a' ower—she has passed away even with that last word." +</pre> +<p> + "Impossible," said Oldbuck, hastily advancing, as did his nephew. But + nothing was more certain. She had expired with the last hurried word that + left her lips; and all that remained before them were the mortal relics + of the creature who had so long struggled with an internal sense of + concealed guilt, joined to all the distresses of age and poverty. +</p> +<p> + "God grant that she be gane to a better place!" said Edie, as he looked + on the lifeless body; "but oh! there was something lying hard and heavy + at her heart. I have seen mony a ane dee, baith in the field o' battle, + and a fair-strae death at hame; but I wad rather see them a' ower again, + as sic a fearfu' flitting as hers!" +</p> +<p> + "We must call in the neighbours," said Oldbuck, when he had somewhat + recovered his horror and astonishment, "and give warning of this + additional calamity. I wish she could have been brought to a confession. + And, though of far less consequence, I could have wished to transcribe + that metrical fragment. But Heaven's will must be done!" +</p> +<p> + They left the hut accordingly, and gave the alarm in the hamlet, whose + matrons instantly assembled to compose the limbs and arrange the body of + her who might be considered as the mother of their settlement. Oldbuck + promised his assistance for the funeral. +</p> +<p> + "Your honour," said Alison Breck, who was next in age to the deceased, + "suld send doun something to us for keeping up our hearts at the + lykewake, for a' Saunders's gin, puir man, was drucken out at the burial + o' Steenie, and we'll no get mony to sit dry-lipped aside the corpse. + Elspeth was unco clever in her young days, as I can mind right weel, but + there was aye a word o' her no being that chancy. Ane suldna speak ill o' + the dead—mair by token, o' ane's cummer and neighbour—but there was + queer things said about a leddy and a bairn or she left the + Craigburnfoot. And sae, in gude troth, it will be a puir lykewake, unless + your honour sends us something to keep us cracking." +</p> +<p> + "You shall have some whisky," answered Oldbuck, "the rather that you have + preserved the proper word for that ancient custom of watching the dead.— + You observe, Hector, this is genuine Teutonic, from the Gothic + <i>Leichnam,</i> a corpse. It is quite erroneously called <i>Late-wake,</i> though + Brand favours that modern corruption and derivation." +</p> +<p> + "I believe," said Hector to himself, "my uncle would give away Monkbarns + to any one who would come to ask it in genuine Teutonic! Not a drop of + whisky would the old creatures have got, had their president asked it for + the use of the <i>Late-wake.</i>" +</p> +<p> + While Oldbuck was giving some farther directions, and promising + assistance, a servant of Sir Arthur's came riding very hard along the + sands, and stopped his horse when he saw the Antiquary. "There had + something," he said, "very particular happened at the Castle"—(he could + not, or would not, explain what)—"and Miss Wardour had sent him off + express to Monkbarns, to beg that Mr. Oldbuck would come to them without + a moment's delay." +</p> +<p> + "I am afraid," said the Antiquary, "his course also is drawing to a + close. What can I do?" +</p> +<p> + "Do, sir?" exclaimed Hector, with his characteristic impatience,—"get on + the horse, and turn his head homeward—you will be at Knockwinnock Castle + in ten minutes." +</p> +<p> + "He is quite a free goer," said the servant, dismounting to adjust the + girths and stirrups,—"he only pulls a little if he feels a dead weight + on him." +</p> +<p> + "I should soon be a dead weight <i>off</i> him, my friend," said the + Antiquary.—"What the devil, nephew, are you weary of me? or do you + suppose me weary of my life, that I should get on the back of such a + Bucephalus as that? No, no, my friend, if I am to be at Knockwinnock + to-day, it must be by walking quietly forward on my own feet, which I + will do with as little delay as possible. Captain M'Intyre may ride that + animal himself, if he pleases." +</p> +<p> + "I have little hope I could be of any use, uncle, but I cannot think of + their distress without wishing to show sympathy at least—so I will ride + on before, and announce to them that you are coming.—I'll trouble you + for your spurs, my friend." +</p> +<p> + "You will scarce need them, sir," said the man, taking them off at the + same time, and buckling them upon Captain Mlntyre's heels, "he's very + frank to the road." +</p> +<p> + Oldbuck stood astonished at this last act of temerity, "are you mad, + Hector?" he cried, "or have you forgotten what is said by Quintus + Curtius, with whom, as a soldier, you must needs be familiar,—<i>Nobilis + equus umbra quidem virgae regitur; ignavus ne calcari quidem excitari + potest;</i> which plainly shows that spurs are useless in every case, and, I + may add, dangerous in most." +</p> +<p> + But Hector, who cared little for the opinion of either Quintus Curtius or + of the Antiquary, upon such a topic, only answered with a heedless "Never + fear—never fear, sir." +</p> +<pre> + With that he gave his able horse the head, + And, bending forward, struck his armed heels + Against the panting sides of his poor jade, + Up to the rowel-head; and starting so, + He seemed in running to devour the way, + Staying no longer question. +</pre> +<p> + "There they go, well matched," said Oldbuck, looking after them as they + started—"a mad horse and a wild boy, the two most unruly creatures in + Christendom! and all to get half an hour sooner to a place where nobody + wants him; for I doubt Sir Arthur's griefs are beyond the cure of our + light horseman. It must be the villany of Dousterswivel, for whom Sir + Arthur has done so much; for I cannot help observing, that, with some + natures, Tacitus's maxim holdeth good: <i>Beneficia eo usque laeta sunt dum + videntur exsolvi posse; ubi multum antevenere, pro gratia odium + redditur,</i>—from which a wise man might take a caution, not to oblige any + man beyond the degree in which he may expect to be requited, lest he + should make his debtor a bankrupt in gratitude." +</p> +<p> + Murmuring to himself such scraps of cynical philosophy, our Antiquary + paced the sands towards Knockwinnock; but it is necessary we should + outstrip him, for the purpose of explaining the reasons of his being so + anxiously summoned thither. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0020"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER TWENTIETH. +</h2> +<pre> + So, while the Goose, of whom the fable told, + Incumbent, brooded o'er her eggs of gold, + With hand outstretched, impatient to destroy, + Stole on her secret nest the cruel Boy, + Whose gripe rapacious changed her splendid dream, + —For wings vain fluttering, and for dying scream. + The Loves of the Sea-weeds. +</pre> +<p> + From the time that Sir Arthur Wardour had become possessor of the + treasure found in Misticot's grave, he had been in a state of mind more + resembling ecstasy than sober sense. Indeed, at one time his daughter had + become seriously apprehensive for his intellect; for, as he had no doubt + that he had the secret of possessing himself of wealth to an unbounded + extent, his language and carriage were those of a man who had acquired + the philosopher's stone. He talked of buying contiguous estates, that + would have led him from one side of the island to the other, as if he + were determined to brook no neighbour save the sea. He corresponded with + an architect of eminence, upon a plan of renovating the castle of his + forefathers on a style of extended magnificence that might have rivalled + that of Windsor, and laying out the grounds on a suitable scale. Troops + of liveried menials were already, in fancy, marshalled in his halls, + and—for what may not unbounded wealth authorize its possessor to aspire + to?—the coronet of a marquis, perhaps of a duke, was glittering before + his imagination. His daughter—to what matches might she not look + forward? Even an alliance with the blood-royal was not beyond the sphere + of his hopes. His son was already a general—and he himself whatever + ambition could dream of in its wildest visions. +</p> +<p> + In this mood, if any one endeavoured to bring Sir Arthur down to the + regions of common life, his replies were in the vein of Ancient Pistol— +</p> +<pre> + A fico for the world, and worldlings base + I speak of Africa and golden joys! +</pre> +<p> + The reader may conceive the amazement of Miss Wardour, when, instead of + undergoing an investigation concerning the addresses of Lovel, as she had + expected from the long conference of her father with Mr. Oldbuck, upon + the morning of the fated day when the treasure was discovered, the + conversation of Sir Arthur announced an imagination heated with the hopes + of possessing the most unbounded wealth. But she was seriously alarmed + when Dousterswivel was sent for to the Castle, and was closeted with her + father—his mishap condoled with—his part taken, and his loss + compensated. All the suspicions which she had long entertained respecting + this man became strengthened, by observing his pains to keep up the + golden dreams of her father, and to secure for himself, under various + pretexts, as much as possible out of the windfall which had so strangely + fallen to Sir Arthur's share. +</p> +<p> + Other evil symptoms began to appear, following close on each other. + Letters arrived every post, which Sir Arthur, as soon as he had looked at + the directions, flung into the fire without taking the trouble to open + them. Miss Wardour could not help suspecting that these epistles, the + contents of which seemed to be known to her father by a sort of + intuition, came from pressing creditors. In the meanwhile, the temporary + aid which he had received from the treasure dwindled fast away. By far + the greater part had been swallowed up by the necessity of paying the + bill of six hundred pounds, which had threatened Sir Arthur with instant + distress. Of the rest, some part was given to the adept, some wasted upon + extravagances which seemed to the poor knight fully authorized by his + full-blown hopes,—and some went to stop for a time the mouths of such + claimants as, being weary of fair promises, had become of opinion with + Harpagon, that it was necessary to touch something substantial. At length + circumstances announced but too plainly, that it was all expended within + two or three days after its discovery; and there appeared no prospect of + a supply. Sir Arthur, naturally impatient, now taxed Dousterswivel anew + with breach of those promises through which he had hoped to convert all + his lead into gold. But that worthy gentleman's turn was now served; and + as he had grace enough to wish to avoid witnessing the fall of the house + which he had undermined, he was at the trouble of bestowing a few learned + terms of art upon Sir Arthur, that at least he might not be tormented + before his time. He took leave of him, with assurances that he would + return to Knockwinnock the next morning, with such information as would + not fail to relieve Sir Arthur from all his distresses. +</p> +<p> + "For, since I have consulted in such matters, I ave never," said Mr. + Herman Dousterswivel, "approached so near de <i>arcanum,</i> what you call de + great mystery,—de Panchresta—de Polychresta—I do know as much of it as + Pelaso de Taranta, or Basilius—and either I will bring you in two and + tree days de No. III. of Mr. Mishdigoat, or you shall call me one knave + myself, and never look me in de face again no more at all." +</p> +<p> + The adept departed with this assurance, in the firm resolution of making + good the latter part of the proposition, and never again appearing before + his injured patron. Sir Arthur remained in a doubtful and anxious state + of mind. The positive assurances of the philosopher, with the hard words + Panchresta, Basilius, and so forth, produced some effect on his mind. But + he had been too often deluded by such jargon, to be absolutely relieved + of his doubt, and he retired for the evening into his library, in the + fearful state of one who, hanging over a precipice, and without the means + of retreat, perceives the stone on which he rests gradually parting from + the rest of the crag, and about to give way with him. +</p> +<p> + The visions of hope decayed, and there increased in proportion that + feverish agony of anticipation with which a man, educated in a sense of + consequence, and possessed of opulence,—the supporter of an ancient + name, and the father of two promising children,—foresaw the hour + approaching which should deprive him of all the splendour which time had + made familiarly necessary to him, and send him forth into the world to + struggle with poverty, with rapacity, and with scorn. Under these dire + forebodings, his temper, exhausted by the sickness of delayed hope, + became peevish and fretful, and his words and actions sometimes expressed + a reckless desperation, which alarmed Miss Wardour extremely. We have + seen, on a former occasion, that Sir Arthur was a man of passions lively + and quick, in proportion to the weakness of his character in other + respects; he was unused to contradiction, and if he had been hitherto, in + general, good-humoured and cheerful, it was probably because the course + of his life had afforded no such frequent provocation as to render his + irritability habitual. +</p> +<p> + On the third morning after Dousterswivel's departure, the servant, as + usual, laid on the breakfast table the newspaper and letters of the day. + Miss Wardour took up the former to avoid the continued ill-humour of her + father, who had wrought himself into a violent passion, because the toast + was over-browned. +</p> +<p> + "I perceive how it is," was his concluding speech on this interesting + subject,—"my servants, who have had their share of my fortune, begin to + think there is little to be made of me in future. But while I <i>am</i> the + scoundrel's master I will be so, and permit no neglect—no, nor endure a + hair's-breadth diminution of the respect I am entitled to exact from + them." +</p> +<p> + "I am ready to leave your honour's service this instant," said the + domestic upon whom the fault had been charged, "as soon as you order + payment of my wages." +</p> +<p> + Sir Arthur, as if stung by a serpent, thrust his hand into his pocket, + and instantly drew out the money which it contained, but which was short + of the man's claim. "What money have you got, Miss Wardour?" he said, in + a tone of affected calmness, but which concealed violent agitation. +</p> +<p> + Miss Wardour gave him her purse; he attempted to count the bank notes + which it contained, but could not reckon them. After twice miscounting + the sum, he threw the whole to his daughter, and saying, in a stern + voice, "Pay the rascal, and let him leave the house instantly!" he strode + out of the room. +</p> +<p> + The mistress and servant stood alike astonished at the agitation and + vehemence of his manner. +</p> +<p> + "I am sure, ma'am, if I had thought I was particularly wrang, I wadna hae + made ony answer when Sir Arthur challenged me. I hae been lang in his + service, and he has been a kind master, and you a kind mistress, and I + wad like ill ye should think I wad start for a hasty word. I am sure it + was very wrang o' me to speak about wages to his honour, when maybe he + has something to vex him. I had nae thoughts o' leaving the family in + this way." +</p> +<p> + "Go down stair, Robert," said his mistress—"something has happened to + fret my father—go down stairs, and let Alick answer the bell." +</p> +<p> + When the man left the room, Sir Arthur re-entered, as if he had been + watching his departure. "What's the meaning of this?" he said hastily, as + he observed the notes lying still on the table—"Is he not gone? Am I + neither to be obeyed as a master or a father?" +</p> +<p> + "He is gone to give up his charge to the housekeeper, sir,—I thought + there was not such instant haste." +</p> +<p> + "There <i>is</i> haste, Miss Wardour," answered her father, interrupting + her;—"What I do henceforth in the house of my forefathers, must be done + speedily, or never." +</p> +<p> + He then sate down, and took up with a trembling hand the basin of tea + prepared for him, protracting the swallowing of it, as if to delay the + necessity of opening the post-letters which lay on the table, and which + he eyed from time to time, as if they had been a nest of adders ready to + start into life and spring upon him. +</p> +<p> + "You will be happy to hear," said Miss Wardour, willing to withdraw her + father's mind from the gloomy reflections in which he appeared to be + plunged, "you will be happy to hear, sir, that Lieutenant Taffril's + gun-brig has got safe into Leith Roads—I observe there had been + apprehensions for his safety—I am glad we did not hear them till they + were contradicted." +</p> +<p> + "And what is Taffril and his gun-brig to me?" +</p> +<p> + "Sir!" said Miss Wardour in astonishment; for Sir Arthur, in his ordinary + state of mind, took a fidgety sort of interest in all the gossip of the + day and country. +</p> +<p> + "I say," he repeated in a higher and still more impatient key, "what do I + care who is saved or lost? It's nothing to me, I suppose?" +</p> +<p> + "I did not know you were busy, Sir Arthur; and thought, as Mr. Taffril is + a brave man, and from our own country, you would be happy to hear"— +</p> +<p> + "Oh, I am happy—as happy as possible—and, to make you happy too, you + shall have some of my good news in return." And he caught up a letter. + "It does not signify which I open first—they are all to the same tune." +</p> +<p> + He broke the seal hastily, ran the letter over, and then threw it to his + daughter. "Ay—I could not have lighted more happily!—this places the + copestone." +</p> +<p> + Miss Wardour, in silent terror, took up the letter. "Read it—read it + aloud!" said her father; "it cannot be read too often; it will serve to + break you in for other good news of the same kind." +</p> +<p> + She began to read with a faltering voice, "Dear Sir." +</p> +<p> + "He <i>dears</i> me too, you see, this impudent drudge of a writer's office, + who, a twelvemonth since, was not fit company for my second table—I + suppose I shall be dear Knight' with him by and by." +</p> +<p> + "Dear Sir," resumed Miss Wardour; but, interrupting herself, "I see the + contents are unpleasant, sir—it will only vex you my reading them + aloud." +</p> +<p> + "If you will allow me to know my own pleasure, Miss Wardour, I entreat + you to go on—I presume, if it were unnecessary, I should not ask you to + take the trouble." +</p> +<p> + "Having been of late taken into copartnery," continued Miss Wardour, + reading the letter, "by Mr. Gilbert Greenhorn, son of your late + correspondent and man of business, Girnigo Greenhorn, Esq., writer to the + signet, whose business I conducted as parliament-house clerk for many + years, which business will in future be carried on under the firm of + Greenhorn and Grinderson (which I memorandum for the sake of accuracy in + addressing your future letters), and having had of late favours of yours, + directed to my aforesaid partner, Gilbert Greenhorn, in consequence of + his absence at the Lamberton races, have the honour to reply to your said + favours." +</p> +<p> + "You see my friend is methodical, and commences by explaining the causes + which have procured me so modest and elegant a correspondent. Go on—I + can bear it." +</p> +<p> + And he laughed that bitter laugh which is perhaps the most fearful + expression of mental misery. Trembling to proceed, and yet afraid to + disobey, Miss Wardour continued to read—"I am for myself and partner, + sorry we cannot oblige you by looking out for the sums you mention, or + applying for a suspension in the case of Goldiebirds' bond, which would + be more inconsistent, as we have been employed to act as the said + Goldiebirds' procurators and attorneys, in which capacity we have taken + out a charge of horning against you, as you must be aware by the schedule + left by the messenger, for the sum of four thousand seven hundred and + fifty-six pounds five shillings and sixpence one-fourth of a penny + sterling, which, with annual-rent and expenses effeiring, we presume will + be settled during the currency of the charge, to prevent further trouble. + Same time, I am under the necessity to observe our own account, amounting + to seven hundred and sixty-nine pounds ten shillings and sixpence, is + also due, and settlement would be agreeable; but as we hold your rights, + title-deeds, and documents in hypothec, shall have no objection to give + reasonable time—say till the next money term. I am, for myself and + partner, concerned to add, that Messrs. Goldiebirds' instructions to us + are to proceed <i>peremptorie</i> and <i>sine mora,</i> of which I have the + pleasure to advise you, to prevent future mistakes, reserving to + ourselves otherwise to age' as accords. I am, for self and partner, dear + sir, your obliged humble servant, Gabriel Grinderson, for Greenhorn and + Grinderson." +</p> +<p> + "Ungrateful villain!" said Miss Wardour. +</p> +<p> + "Why, no—it's in the usual rule, I suppose; the blow could not have been + perfect if dealt by another hand—it's all just as it should be," + answered the poor Baronet, his affected composure sorely belied by his + quivering lip and rolling eye—"But here's a postscript I did not + notice—come, finish the epistle." +</p> +<p> + "I have to add (not for self but partner) that Mr. Greenhorn will + accommodate you by taking your service of plate, or the bay horses, if + sound in wind and limb, at a fair appreciation, in part payment of your + accompt." +</p> +<p> + "G—d confound him!" said Sir Arthur, losing all command of himself at + this condescending proposal: "his grandfather shod my father's horses, + and this descendant of a scoundrelly blacksmith proposes to swindle me + out of mine! But I will write him a proper answer." +</p> +<p> + And he sate down and began to write with great vehemence, then stopped + and read aloud:—"Mr. Gilbert Greenhorn,—in answer to two letters of a + late date, I received a letter from a person calling himself Grinderson, + and designing himself as your partner. When I address any one, I do not + usually expect to be answered by deputy—I think I have been useful to + your father, and friendly and civil to yourself, and therefore am now + surprised—And yet," said he, stopping short, "why should I be surprised + at that or anything else? or why should I take up my time in writing to + such a scoundrel?—I shan't be always kept in prison, I suppose; and to + break that puppy's bones when I get out, shall be my first employment." +</p> +<p> + "In prison, sir?" said Miss Wardour, faintly. +</p> +<p> + "Ay, in prison to be sure. Do you make any question about that? Why, Mr. + what's his name's fine letter for self and partner seems to be thrown + away on you, or else you have got four thousand so many hundred pounds, + with the due proportion of shillings, pence, and half-pence, to pay that + aforesaid demand, as he calls it." +</p> +<p> + "I, sir? O if I had the means!—But where's my brother?—why does he not + come, and so long in Scotland? He might do something to assist us." +</p> +<p> + "Who, Reginald?—I suppose he's gone with Mr. Gilbert Greenhorn, or some + such respectable person, to the Lamberton races—I have expected him this + week past; but I cannot wonder that my children should neglect me as well + as every other person. But I should beg your pardon, my love, who never + either neglected or offended me in your life." +</p> +<p> + And kissing her cheek as she threw her arms round his neck, he + experienced that consolation which a parent feels, even in the most + distressed state, in the assurance that he possesses the affection of a + child. +</p> +<p> + Miss Wardour took the advantage of this revulsion of feeling, to + endeavour to soothe her father's mind to composure. She reminded him that + he had many friends. +</p> +<p> + "I had many once," said Sir Arthur; "but of some I have exhausted their + kindness with my frantic projects; others are unable to assist me—others + are unwilling. It is all over with me. I only hope Reginald will take + example by my folly." +</p> +<p> + "Should I not send to Monkbarns, sir?" said his daughter. +</p> +<p> + "To what purpose? He cannot lend me such a sum, and would not if he + could, for he knows I am otherwise drowned in debt; and he would only + give me scraps of misanthropy and quaint ends of Latin." +</p> +<p> + "But he is shrewd and sensible, and was bred to business, and, I am sure, + always loved this family." +</p> +<p> + "Yes, I believe he did. It is a fine pass we are come to, when the + affection of an Oldbuck is of consequence to a Wardour! But when matters + come to extremity, as I suppose they presently will—it may be as well to + send for him. And now go take your walk, my dear—my mind is more + composed than when I had this cursed disclosure to make. You know the + worst, and may daily or hourly expect it. Go take your walk—I would + willingly be alone for a little while." +</p> +<p> + When Miss Wardour left the apartment, her first occupation was to avail + herself of the half permission granted by her father, by despatching to + Monkbarns the messenger, who, as we have already seen, met the Antiquary + and his nephew on the sea-beach. +</p> +<p> + Little recking, and indeed scarce knowing, where she was wandering, + chance directed her into the walk beneath the Briery Bank, as it was + called. A brook, which in former days had supplied the castle-moat with + water, here descended through a narrow dell, up which Miss Wardour's + taste had directed a natural path, which was rendered neat and easy of + ascent, without the air of being formally made and preserved. It suited + well the character of the little glen, which was overhung with thickets + and underwood, chiefly of larch and hazel, intermixed with the usual + varieties of the thorn and brier. In this walk had passed that scene of + explanation between Miss Wardour and Lovel which was overheard by old + Edie Ochiltree. With a heart softened by the distress which approached + her family, Miss Wardour now recalled every word and argument which Lovel + had urged in support of his suit, and could not help confessing to + herself, it was no small subject of pride to have inspired a young man of + his talents with a passion so strong and disinterested. That he should + have left the pursuit of a profession in which he was said to be rapidly + rising, to bury himself in a disagreeable place like Fairport, and brood + over an unrequited passion, might be ridiculed by others as romantic, but + was naturally forgiven as an excess of affection by the person who was + the object of his attachment. Had he possessed an independence, however + moderate, or ascertained a clear and undisputed claim to the rank in + society he was well qualified to adorn, she might now have had it in her + power to offer her father, during his misfortunes, an asylum in an + establishment of her own. These thoughts, so favourable to the absent + lover, crowded in, one after the other, with such a minute recapitulation + of his words, looks, and actions, as plainly intimated that his former + repulse had been dictated rather by duty than inclination. Isabella was + musing alternately upon this subject, and upon that of her father's + misfortunes, when, as the path winded round a little hillock covered with + brushwood, the old Blue-Gown suddenly met her. +</p> +<p> + With an air as if he had something important and mysterious to + communicate, he doffed his bonnet, and assumed the cautious step and + voice of one who would not willingly be overheard. "I hae been wishing + muckle to meet wi' your leddyship—for ye ken I darena come to the house + for Dousterswivel." +</p> +<p> + "I heard indeed," said Miss Wardour, dropping an alms into the bonnet—"I + heard that you had done a very foolish, if not a very bad thing, Edie— + and I was sorry to hear it." +</p> +<p> + "Hout, my bonny leddy—fulish? A' the world's fules—and how should auld + Edie Ochiltree be aye wise?—And for the evil—let them wha deal wi' + Dousterswivel tell whether he gat a grain mair than his deserts." +</p> +<p> + "That may be true, Edie, and yet," said Miss Wardour, "you may have been + very wrong." +</p> +<p> + "Weel, weel, we'se no dispute that e'ennow—it's about yoursell I'm gaun + to speak. Div ye ken what's hanging ower the house of Knockwinnock?" +</p> +<p> + "Great distress, I fear, Edie," answered Miss Wardour; "but I am + surprised it is already so public." +</p> +<p> + "Public!—Sweepclean, the messenger, will be there the day wi' a' his + tackle. I ken it frae ane o' his concurrents, as they ca' them, that's + warned to meet him; and they'll be about their wark belyve; whare they + clip, there needs nae kame—they shear close eneugh." +</p> +<p> + "Are you sure this bad hour, Edie, is so very near?—come, I know, it + will." +</p> +<p> + "It's e'en as I tell you, leddy. But dinna be cast down—there's a heaven + ower your head here, as weel as in that fearful night atween the + Ballyburghness and the Halket-head. D'ye think He, wha rebuked the + waters, canna protect you against the wrath of men, though they be armed + with human authority?" +</p> +<p> + "It is indeed all we have to trust to." +</p> +<p> + "Ye dinna ken—ye dinna ken: when the night's darkest, the dawn's + nearest. If I had a gude horse, or could ride him when I had him, I + reckon there wad be help yet. I trusted to hae gotten a cast wi' the + Royal Charlotte, but she's coupit yonder, it's like, at Kittlebrig. There + was a young gentleman on the box, and he behuved to drive; and Tam Sang, + that suld hae mair sense, he behuved to let him, and the daft callant + couldna tak the turn at the corner o' the brig; and od! he took the + curbstane, and he's whomled her as I wad whomle a toom bicker—it was a + luck I hadna gotten on the tap o' her. Sae I came down atween hope and + despair, to see if ye wad send me on." +</p> +<p> + "And, Edie—where would ye go?" said the young lady. +</p> +<p> + "To Tannonburgh, my leddy" (which was the first stage from Fairport, but + a good deal nearer to Knockwinnock), "and that without delay—it's a' on + your ain business." +</p> +<p> + "Our business, Edie? Alas! I give you all credit for your good meaning; + but"— +</p> +<p> + "There's nae <i>buts</i> about it, my leddy, for gang I maun," said the + persevering Blue-Gown. +</p> +<p> + "But what is it that you would do at Tannonburgh?—or how can your going + there benefit my father's affairs?" +</p> +<p> + "Indeed, my sweet leddy," said the gaberlunzie, "ye maun just trust that + bit secret to auld Edie's grey pow, and ask nae questions about it. + Certainly if I wad hae wared my life for you yon night, I can hae nae + reason to play an ill pliskie t'ye in the day o' your distress." +</p> +<p> + "Well, Edie, follow me then," said Miss Wardour, "and I will try to get + you sent to Tannonburgh." +</p> +<p> + "Mak haste then, my bonny leddy—mak haste, for the love o' goodness!"— + and he continued to exhort her to expedition until they reached the + Castle. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0021"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER TWENTY-FIRST. +</h2> +<pre> + Let those go see who will—I like it not— + For, say he was a slave to rank and pomp, + And all the nothings he is now divorced from + By the hard doom of stern necessity: + Yet it is sad to mark his altered brow, + Where Vanity adjusts her flimsy veil + O'er the deep wrinkles of repentant anguish. + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + When Miss Wardour arrived in the court of the Castle, she was apprized by + the first glance that the visit of the officers of the law had already + taken place. There was confusion, and gloom and sorrow, and curiosity + among the domestics, while the retainers of the law went from place to + place, making an inventory of the goods and chattels falling under their + warrant of distress, or poinding, as it is called in the law of Scotland. + Captain M'Intyre flew to her, as, struck dumb with the melancholy + conviction of her father's ruin, she paused upon the threshold of the + gateway. +</p> +<p> + "Dear Miss Wardour," he said, "do not make yourself uneasy; my uncle is + coming immediately, and I am sure he will find some way to clear the + house of these rascals." +</p> +<p> + "Alas! Captain M'Intyre, I fear it will be too late." +</p> +<p> + "No," answered Edie, impatiently—"could I but get to Tannonburgh. In the + name of Heaven, Captain, contrive some way to get me on, and ye'll do + this poor ruined family the best day's doing that has been done them + since Redhand's days—for as sure as e'er an auld saw came true, + Knockwinnock house and land will be lost and won this day." +</p> +<p> + "Why, what good can you do, old man?" said Hector. +</p> +<p> + But Robert, the domestic with whom Sir Arthur had been so much displeased + in the morning, as if he had been watching for an opportunity to display + his zeal, stepped hastily forward and said to his mistress, "If you + please, ma'am, this auld man, Ochiltree, is very skeely and auld-farrant + about mony things, as the diseases of cows and horse, and sic like, and I + am sure be disna want to be at Tannonburgh the day for naething, since he + insists on't this gate; and, if your leddyship pleases, I'll drive him + there in the taxed-cart in an hour's time. I wad fain be of some use—I + could bite my very tongue out when I think on this morning." +</p> +<p> + "I am obliged to you, Robert," said Miss Wardour; "and if you really + think it has the least chance of being useful"— +</p> +<p> + "In the name of God," said the old man, "yoke the cart, Robie, and if I + am no o' some use, less or mair, I'll gie ye leave to fling me ower + Kittlebrig as ye come back again. But, O man, haste ye, for time's + precious this day." +</p> +<p> + Robert looked at his mistress as she retired into the house, and seeing + he was not prohibited, flew to the stable-yard, which was adjacent to the + court, in order to yoke the, carriage; for, though an old beggar was the + personage least likely to render effectual assistance in a case of + pecuniary distress, yet there was among the common people of Edie's + circle, a general idea of his prudence and sagacity, which authorized + Robert's conclusion that he would not so earnestly have urged the + necessity of this expedition had he not been convinced of its utility. + But so soon as the servant took hold of a horse to harness him for the + taxed-cart, an officer touched him on the shoulder—"My friend, you must + let that beast alone—he's down in the schedule." +</p> +<p> + "What!" said Robert, "am I not to take my master's horse to go my young + leddy's errand?" +</p> +<p> + "You must remove nothing here," said the man of office, "or you will be + liable for all consequences." +</p> +<p> + "What the devil, sir," said Hector, who having followed to examine + Ochiltree more closely on the nature of his hopes and expectations, + already began to bristle like one of the terriers of his own native + mountains, and sought but a decent pretext for venting his displeasure, + "have you the impudence to prevent the young lady's servant from obeying + her orders?" +</p> +<p> + There was something in the air and tone of the young soldier, which + seemed to argue that his interference was not likely to be confined to + mere expostulation; and which, if it promised finally the advantages of a + process of battery and deforcement, would certainly commence with the + unpleasant circumstances necessary for founding such a complaint. The + legal officer, confronted with him of the military, grasped with one + doubtful hand the greasy bludgeon which was to enforce his authority, and + with the other produced his short official baton, tipped with silver, and + having a movable ring upon it—"Captain M'Intyre,—Sir, I have no quarrel + with you,—but if you interrupt me in my duty, I will break the wand of + peace, and declare myself deforced." +</p> +<p> + "And who the devil cares," said Hector, totally ignorant of the words of + judicial action, "whether you declare yourself divorced or married? And + as to breaking your wand, or breaking the peace, or whatever you call it, + all I know is, that I will break your bones if you prevent the lad from + harnessing the horses to obey his mistress's orders." +</p> +<p> + "I take all who stand here to witness," said the messenger, "that I + showed him my blazon, and explained my character. He that will to Cupar + maun to Cupar,"—and he slid his enigmatical ring from one end of the + baton to the other, being the appropriate symbol of his having been + forcibly interrupted in the discharge of his duty. +</p> +<p> + Honest Hector, better accustomed to the artillery of the field than to + that of the law, saw this mystical ceremony with great indifference; and + with like unconcern beheld the messenger sit down to write out an + execution of deforcement. But at this moment, to prevent the well-meaning + hot-headed Highlander from running the risk of a severe penalty, the + Antiquary arrived puffing and blowing, with his handkerchief crammed + under his hat, and his wig upon the end of his stick. +</p> +<p> + "What the deuce is the matter here?" he exclaimed, hastily adjusting his + head-gear; "I have been following you in fear of finding your idle + loggerhead knocked against one rock or other, and here I find you parted + with your Bucephalus, and quarrelling with Sweepclean. A messenger, + Hector, is a worse foe than a <i>phoca,</i> whether it be the <i>phoca barbata,</i> + or the <i>phoca vitulina</i> of your late conflict." +</p> +<p> + "D—n the <i>phoca,</i> sir," said Hector, "whether it be the one or the + other—I say d—n them both particularly! I think you would not have me + stand quietly by and see a scoundrel like this, because he calls himself + a king's messenger, forsooth—(I hope the king has many better for his + meanest errands)—insult a young lady of family and fashion like Miss + Wardour?" +</p> +<p> + "Rightly argued, Hector," said the Antiquary; "but the king, like other + people, has now and then shabby errands, and, in your ear, must have + shabby fellows to do them. But even supposing you unacquainted with the + statutes of William the Lion, in which <i>capite quarto versu quinto,</i> this + crime of deforcement is termed <i>despectus Domini Regis</i>—a contempt, to + wit, of the king himself, in whose name all legal diligence issues,— + could you not have inferred, from the information I took so much pains to + give you to-day, that those who interrupt officers who come to execute + letters of caption, are <i>tanquam participes criminis rebellionis?</i> seeing + that he who aids a rebel, is himself, <i>quodammodo,</i> an accessory to + rebellion—But I'll bring you out of this scrape." +</p> +<p> + He then spoke to the messenger, who, upon his arrival, had laid aside all + thoughts of making a good by-job out of the deforcement, and accepted Mr. + Oldbuck's assurances that the horse and taxed-cart should be safely + returned in the course of two or three hours. +</p> +<p> + "Very well, sir," said the Antiquary, "since you are disposed to be so + civil, you shall have another job in your own best way—a little cast of + state politics—a crime punishable <i>per Legem Juliam,</i> Mr. Sweepclean— + Hark thee hither." +</p> +<p> + And after a whisper of five minutes, he gave him a slip of paper, on + receiving which, the messenger mounted his horse, and, with one of his + assistants, rode away pretty sharply. The fellow who remained seemed to + delay his operations purposely, proceeded in the rest of his duty very + slowly, and with the caution and precision of one who feels himself + overlooked by a skilful and severe inspector. +</p> +<p> + In the meantime, Oldbuck, taking his nephew by the arm, led him into the + house, and they were ushered into the presence of Sir Arthur Wardour, + who, in a flutter between wounded pride, agonized apprehension, and vain + attempts to disguise both under a show of indifference, exhibited a + spectacle of painful interest. +</p> +<p> + "Happy to see you, Mr. Oldbuck—always happy to see my friends in fair + weather or foul," said the poor Baronet, struggling not for composure, + but for gaiety—an affectation which was strongly contrasted by the + nervous and protracted grasp of his hand, and the agitation of his whole + demeanour—"I am happy to see you. You are riding, I see—I hope in this + confusion your horses are taken good care of—I always like to have my + friend's horses looked after—Egad! they will have all my care now, for + you see they are like to leave me none of my own—he! he! he! eh, Mr. + Oldbuck?" +</p> +<p> + This attempt at a jest was attended by a hysterical giggle, which poor + Sir Arthur intended should sound as an indifferent laugh. +</p> +<p> + "You know I never ride, Sir Arthur," said the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "I beg your pardon; but sure I saw your nephew arrive on horseback a + short time since. We must look after officers' horses, and his was as + handsome a grey charger as I have seen." +</p> +<p> + Sir Arthur was about to ring the bell, when Mr. Oldbuck said, "My nephew + came on your own grey horse, Sir Arthur." +</p> +<p> + "Mine!" said the poor Baronet; "mine was it? then the sun had been in my + eyes. Well, I'm not worthy having a horse any longer, since I don't know + my own when I see him." +</p> +<p> + "Good Heaven!" thought Oldbuck, "how is this man altered from the formal + stolidity of his usual manner!—he grows wanton under adversity—<i>Sed + pereunti mille figurae.</i>"—He then proceeded aloud—"Sir Arthur, we must + necessarily speak a little on business." +</p> +<p> + "To be sure," said Sir Arthur; "but it was so good that I should not know + the horse I have ridden these five years—ha! ha! ha!" +</p> +<p> + "Sir Arthur," said the Antiquary, "don't let us waste time which is + precious; we shall have, I hope, many better seasons for jesting— + <i>desipere in loco</i> is the maxim of Horace. I more than suspect this has + been brought on by the villany of Dousterswivel." +</p> +<p> + "Don't mention his name, sir!" said Sir Arthur; and his manner entirely + changed from a fluttered affectation of gaiety to all the agitation of + fury; his eyes sparkled, his mouth foamed, his hands were clenched— + "don't mention his name, sir," he vociferated, "unless you would see me + go mad in your presence! That I should have been such a miserable dolt— + such an infatuated idiot—such a beast endowed with thrice a beast's + stupidity, to be led and driven and spur-galled by such a rascal, and + under such ridiculous pretences!—Mr. Oldbuck, I could tear myself when I + think of it." +</p> +<p> + "I only meant to say," answered the Antiquary, "that this fellow is like + to meet his reward; and I cannot but think we shall frighten something + out of him that may be of service to you. He has certainly had some + unlawful correspondence on the other side of the water." +</p> +<p> + "Has he?—has he?—has he indeed?—then d—n the house-hold goods, + horses, and so forth—I will go to prison a happy man, Mr. Oldbuck. I + hope in heaven there's a reasonable chance of his being hanged?" +</p> +<p> + "Why, pretty fair," said Oldbuck, willing to encourage this diversion, in + hopes it might mitigate the feelings which seemed like to overset the + poor man's understanding; "honester men have stretched a rope, or the law + has been sadly cheated—But this unhappy business of yours—can nothing + be done? Let me see the charge." +</p> +<p> + He took the papers; and, as he read them, his countenance grew hopelessly + dark and disconsolate. Miss Wardour had by this time entered the + apartment, and fixing her eyes on Mr. Oldbuck, as if she meant to read + her fate in his looks, easily perceived, from the change in his eye, and + the dropping of his nether-jaw, how little was to be hoped. +</p> +<p> + "We are then irremediably ruined, Mr. Oldbuck?" said the young lady. +</p> +<p> + "Irremediably?—I hope not—but the instant demand is very large, and + others will, doubtless, pour in." +</p> +<p> + "Ay, never doubt that, Monkbarns," said Sir Arthur; "where the slaughter + is, the eagles will be gathered together. I am like a sheep which I have + seen fall down a precipice, or drop down from sickness—if you had not + seen a single raven or hooded crow for a fortnight before, he will not + lie on the heather ten minutes before half-a-dozen will be picking out + his eyes (and he drew his hand over his own), and tearing at his + heartstrings before the poor devil has time to die. But that d—d + long-scented vulture that dogged me so long—you have got him fast, I + hope?" +</p> +<p> + "Fast enough," said the Antiquary; "the gentleman wished to take the + wings of the morning, and bolt in the what d'ye call it,—the coach and + four there. But he would have found twigs limed for him at Edinburgh. As + it is, he never got so far, for the coach being overturned—as how could + it go safe with such a Jonah?—he has had an infernal tumble, is carried + into a cottage near Kittlebrig, and to prevent all possibility of escape, + I have sent your friend Sweepclean to bring him back to Fairport <i>in + nomine regis,</i> or to act as his sick-nurse at Kittlebrig, as is most + fitting. And now, Sir Arthur, permit me to have some conversation with + you on the present unpleasant state of your affairs, that we may see what + can be done for their extrication;" and the Antiquary led the way into + the library, followed by the unfortunate gentleman. +</p> +<p> + They had been shut up together for about two hours, when Miss Wardour + interrupted them with her cloak on as if prepared for a journey. Her + countenance was very pale, yet expressive of the composure which + characterized her disposition. +</p> +<p> + "The messenger is returned, Mr. Oldbuck." +</p> +<p> + "Returned?—What the devil! he has not let the fellow go?" +</p> +<p> + "No—I understand he has carried him to confinement; and now he is + returned to attend my father, and says he can wait no longer." +</p> +<p> + A loud wrangling was now heard on the staircase, in which the voice of + Hector predominated. "You an officer, sir, and these ragamuffins a party! + a parcel of beggarly tailor fellows—tell yourselves off by nine, and we + shall know your effective strength." +</p> +<p> + The grumbling voice of the man of law was then heard indistinctly + muttering a reply, to which Hector retorted—"Come, come, sir, this won't + do;—march your party, as you call them, out of this house directly, or + I'll send you and them to the right about presently." +</p> +<p> + "The devil take Hector," said the Antiquary, hastening to the scene of + action; "his Highland blood is up again, and we shall have him fighting a + duel with the bailiff. Come, Mr. Sweepclean, you must give us a little + time—I know you would not wish to hurry Sir Arthur." +</p> +<p> + "By no means, sir," said the messenger, putting his hat off, which he had + thrown on to testify defiance of Captain M'Intyre's threats; "but your + nephew, sir, holds very uncivil language, and I have borne too much of it + already; and I am not justified in leaving my prisoner any longer after + the instructions I received, unless I am to get payment of the sums + contained in my diligence." And he held out the caption, pointing with + the awful truncheon, which he held in his right hand, to the formidable + line of figures jotted upon the back thereof. +</p> +<p> + Hector, on the other hand, though silent from respect to his uncle, + answered this gesture by shaking his clenched fist at the messenger with + a frown of Highland wrath. +</p> +<p> + "Foolish boy, be quiet," said Oldbuck, "and come with me into the room— + the man is doing his miserable duty, and you will only make matters worse + by opposing him.—I fear, Sir Arthur, you must accompany this man to + Fairport; there is no help for it in the first instance—I will accompany + you, to consult what further can be done—My nephew will escort Miss + Wardour to Monkbarns, which I hope she will make her residence until + these unpleasant matters are settled." +</p> +<p> + "I go with my father, Mr. Oldbuck," said Miss Wardour firmly—"I have + prepared his clothes and my own—I suppose we shall have the use of the + carriage?" +</p> +<p> + "Anything in reason, madam," said the messenger; "I have ordered it out, + and it's at the door—I will go on the box with the coachman—I have no + desire to intrude—but two of the concurrents must attend on horseback." +</p> +<p> + "I will attend too," said Hector, and he ran down to secure a horse for + himself. +</p> +<p> + "We must go then," said the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "To jail," said the Baronet, sighing involuntarily. "And what of that?" + he resumed, in a tone affectedly cheerful—"it is only a house we can't + get out of, after all—Suppose a fit of the gout, and Knockwinnock would + be the same—Ay, ay, Monkbarns—we'll call it a fit of the gout without + the d—d pain." +</p> +<p> + But his eyes swelled with tears as he spoke, and his faltering accent + marked how much this assumed gaiety cost him. The Antiquary wrung his + hand, and, like the Indian Banians, who drive the real terms of an + important bargain by signs, while they are apparently talking of + indifferent matters, the hand of Sir Arthur, by its convulsive return of + the grasp, expressed his sense of gratitude to his friend, and the real + state of his internal agony.—They stepped slowly down the magnificent + staircase—every well-known object seeming to the unfortunate father and + daughter to assume a more prominent and distinct appearance than usual, + as if to press themselves on their notice for the last time. +</p> +<p> + At the first landing-place, Sir Arthur made an agonized pause; and as he + observed the Antiquary look at him anxiously, he said with assumed + dignity—"Yes, Mr. Oldbuck, the descendant of an ancient line—the + representative of Richard Redhand and Gamelyn de Guardover, may be + pardoned a sigh when he leaves the castle of his fathers thus poorly + escorted. When I was sent to the Tower with my late father, in the year + 1745, it was upon a charge becoming our birth—upon an accusation of high + treason, Mr. Oldbuck;—we were escorted from Highgate by a troop of + life-guards, and committed upon a secretary of state's warrant; and now, + here I am, in my old age, dragged from my household by a miserable + creature like that" (pointing to the messenger), "and for a paltry + concern of pounds, shillings, and pence." +</p> +<p> + "At least," said Oldbuck, "you have now the company of a dutiful + daughter, and a sincere friend, if you will permit me to say so, and that + may be some consolation, even without the certainty that there can be no + hanging, drawing, or quartering, on the present occasion. But I hear that + choleric boy as loud as ever. I hope to God he has got into no new + broil!—it was an accursed chance that brought him here at all." +</p> +<p> + In fact, a sudden clamour, in which the loud voice and somewhat northern + accent of Hector was again preeminently distinguished, broke off this + conversation. The cause we must refer to the next CHAPTER. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0022"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER TWENTY-SECOND. +</h2> +<pre> + Fortune, you say, flies from us—She but circles, + Like the fleet sea-bird round the fowler's skiff,— + Lost in the mist one moment, and the next + Brushing the white sail with her whiter wing, + As if to court the aim.—Experience watches, + And has her on the wheel— + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + The shout of triumph in Hector's warlike tones was not easily + distinguished from that of battle. But as he rushed up stairs with a + packet in his hand, exclaiming, "Long life to an old soldier! here comes + Edie with a whole budget of good news!" it became obvious that his + present cause of clamour was of an agreeable nature. He delivered the + letter to Oldbuck, shook Sir Arthur heartily by the hand, and wished Miss + Wardour joy, with all the frankness of Highland congratulation. The + messenger, who had a kind of instinctive terror for Captain M'Intyre, + drew towards his prisoner, keeping an eye of caution on the soldier's + motions. +</p> +<p> + "Don't suppose I shall trouble myself about you, you dirty fellow," said + the soldier; "there's a guinea for the fright I have given you; and here + comes an old <i>forty-two</i> man, who is a fitter match for you than I am." +</p> +<p> + The messenger (one of those dogs who are not too scornful to eat dirty + puddings) caught in his hand the guinea which Hector chucked at his face; + and abode warily and carefully the turn which matters were now to take. + All voices meanwhile were loud in inquiries, which no one was in a hurry + to answer. +</p> +<p> + "What is the matter, Captain M'Intyre?" said Sir Arthur. +</p> +<p> + "Ask old Edie," said Hector;—"I only know all's safe and well." +</p> +<p> + "What is all this, Edie?" said Miss Wardour to the mendicant. +</p> +<p> + "Your leddyship maun ask Monkbarns, for he has gotten the yepistolary + correspondensh." +</p> +<p> + "God save the king!" exclaimed the Antiquary at the first glance at the + contents of his packet, and, surprised at once out of decorum, + philosophy, and phlegm, he skimmed his cocked hat in the air, from which + it descended not again, being caught in its fall by a branch of the + chandelier. He next, looking joyously round, laid a grasp on his wig, + which he perhaps would have sent after the beaver, had not Edie stopped + his hand, exclaiming "Lordsake! he's gaun gyte!—mind Caxon's no here to + repair the damage." +</p> +<p> + Every person now assailed the Antiquary, clamouring to know the cause of + so sudden a transport, when, somewhat ashamed of his rapture, he fairly + turned tail, like a fox at the cry of a pack of hounds, and ascending the + stair by two steps at a time, gained the upper landing-place, where, + turning round, he addressed the astonished audience as follows:— +</p> +<a name="image-0008"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/pb271.jpg" height="469" width="735" +alt="My Good Friends, 'favete Linguis' +"> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<p> + "My good friends, <i>favete linguis</i>—To give you information, I must + first, according to logicians, be possessed of it myself; and, therefore, + with your leaves, I will retire into the library to examine these + papers—Sir Arthur and Miss Wardour will have the goodness to step into the + parlour—Mr. Sweepclean, <i>secede paulisper,</i> or, in your own language, + grant us a supersedere of diligence for five minutes—Hector, draw off + your forces, and make your bear-garden flourish elsewhere—and, finally, + be all of good cheer till my return, which will be <i>instanter.</i>" +</p> +<p> + The contents of the packet were indeed so little expected, that the + Antiquary might be pardoned, first his ecstasy, and next his desire of + delaying to communicate the intelligence they conveyed, until it was + arranged and digested in his own mind. +</p> +<p> + Within the envelope was a letter addressed to Jonathan Oldbuck, Esq. of + Monkbarns, of the following purport:— +</p> +<p> + "Dear Sir,—To you, as my father's proved and valued friend, I venture to + address myself, being detained here by military duty of a very pressing + nature. You must by this time be acquainted with the entangled state of + our affairs; and I know it will give you great pleasure to learn, that I + am as fortunately as unexpectedly placed in a situation to give effectual + assistance for extricating them. I understand Sir Arthur is threatened + with severe measures by persons who acted formerly as his agents; and, by + advice of a creditable man of business here, I have procured the enclosed + writing, which I understand will stop their proceedings until their claim + shall be legally discussed, and brought down to its proper amount. I also + enclose bills to the amount of one thousand pounds to pay any other + pressing demands, and request of your friendship to apply them according + to your discretion. You will be surprised I give you this trouble, when + it would seem more natural to address my father directly in his own + affairs. But I have yet had no assurance that his eyes are opened to the + character of a person against whom you have often, I know, warned him, + and whose baneful influence has been the occasion of these distresses. + And as I owe the means of relieving Sir Arthur to the generosity of a + matchless friend, it is my duty to take the most certain measures for the + supplies being devoted to the purpose for which they were destined,—and + I know your wisdom and kindness will see that it is done. My friend, as + he claims an interest in your regard, will explain some views of his own + in the enclosed letter. The state of the post-office at Fairport being + rather notorious, I must send this letter to Tannonburgh; but the old man + Ochiltree, whom particular circumstances have recommended as trustworthy, + has information when the packet is likely to reach that place, and will + take care to forward it. I expect to have soon an opportunity to + apologize in person for the trouble I now give, and have the honour to be + your very faithful servant, +</p> +<p> + "Reginald Gamelyn Wardour." + "Edinburgh, 6th August, 179-." +</p> +<p> + The Antiquary hastily broke the seal of the enclosure, the contents of + which gave him equal surprise and pleasure. When he had in some measure + composed himself after such unexpected tidings, he inspected the other + papers carefully, which all related to business—put the bills into his + pocket-book, and wrote a short acknowledgment to be despatched by that + day's post, for he was extremely methodical in money matters—and lastly, + fraught with all the importance of disclosure, he descended to the + parlour. +</p> +<p> + "Sweepclean," said he, as he entered, to the officer who stood + respectfully at the door, "you must sweep yourself clean out of + Knockwinnock Castle, with all your followers, tag-rag and bob-tail. Seest + thou this paper, man?" +</p> +<p> + "A sist on a bill o' suspension," said the messenger, with a disappointed + look;—"I thought it would be a queer thing if ultimate diligence was to + be done against sic a gentleman as Sir Arthur—Weel, sir, I'se go my ways + with my party—And who's to pay my charges?" +</p> +<p> + "They who employed thee," replied Oldbuck, "as thou full well dost + know.—But here comes another express: this is a day of news, I think." +</p> +<p> + This was Mr. Mailsetter on his mare from Fairport, with a letter for Sir + Arthur, another to the messenger, both of which, he said, he was directed + to forward instantly. The messenger opened his, observing that Greenhorn + and Grinderson were good enough men for his expenses, and here was a + letter from them desiring him to stop the diligence. Accordingly, he + immediately left the apartment, and staying no longer than to gather his + posse together, he did then, in the phrase of Hector, who watched his + departure as a jealous mastiff eyes the retreat of a repulsed beggar, + evacuate Flanders. +</p> +<p> + Sir Arthur's letter was from Mr. Greenhorn, and a curiosity in its way. + We give it, with the worthy Baronet's comments. +</p> +<p> + "Sir—[Oh! I am <i>dear</i> sir no longer; folks are only dear to Messrs. + Greenhorn and Grinderson when they are in adversity]—Sir, I am much + concerned to learn, on my return from the country, where I was called on + particular business [a bet on the sweepstakes, I suppose], that my + partner had the impropriety, in my absence, to undertake the concerns of + Messrs. Goldiebirds in preference to yours, and had written to you in an + unbecoming manner. I beg to make my most humble apology, as well as Mr. + Grindersons—[come, I see he can write for himself and partner too]—and + trust it is impossible you can think me forgetful of, or ungrateful for, + the constant patronage which my family [<i>his</i> family! curse him for a + puppy!] have uniformly experienced from that of Knockwinnock. I am sorry + to find, from an interview I had this day with Mr. Wardour, that he is + much irritated, and, I must own, with apparent reason. But in order to + remedy as much as in me lies the mistake of which he complains [pretty + mistake, indeed! to clap his patron into jail], I have sent this express + to discharge all proceedings against your person or property; and at the + same time to transmit my respectful apology. I have only to add, that Mr. + Grinderson is of opinion, that if restored to your confidence, he could + point out circumstances connected with Messrs. Goldiebirds' present claim + which would greatly reduce its amount [so, so, willing to play the rogue + on either side]; and that there is not the slightest hurry in settling + the balance of your accompt with us; and that I am, for Mr. G. as well as + myself, Dear Sir [O ay, he has written himself into an approach to + familiarity], your much obliged and most humble servant, +</p> +<p> + "Gilbert Greenhorn." +</p> +<p> + "Well said, Mr. Gilbert Greenhorn," said Monkbarns; "I see now there is + some use in having two attorneys in one firm. Their movements resemble + those of the man and woman in a Dutch baby-house. When it is fair weather + with the client, out comes the gentleman partner to fawn like a spaniel; + when it is foul, forth bolts the operative brother to pin like a + bull-dog. Well, I thank God that my man of business still wears an + equilateral cocked hat, has a house in the Old Town, is as much afraid of + a horse as I am myself, plays at golf of a Saturday, goes to the kirk of + a Sunday, and, in respect he has no partner, hath only his own folly to + apologize for." +</p> +<p> + "There are some writers very honest fellows," said Hector; "I should like + to hear any one say that my cousin, Donald M'Intyre, Strathtudlem's + seventh son (the other six are in the army), is not as honest a fellow"— +</p> +<p> + "No doubt, no doubt, Hector, all the M'Intyres are so; they have it by + patent, man—But I was going to say, that in a profession where unbounded + trust is necessarily reposed, there is nothing surprising that fools + should neglect it in their idleness, and tricksters abuse it in their + knavery. But it is the more to the honour of those (and I will vouch for + many) who unite integrity with skill and attention, and walk honourably + upright where there are so many pitfalls and stumbling-blocks for those + of a different character. To such men their fellow citizens may safely + entrust the care of protecting their patrimonial rights, and their + country the more sacred charge of her laws and privileges." +</p> +<p> + "They are best aff, however, that hae least to do with them," said + Ochiltree, who had stretched his neck into the parlour door; for the + general confusion of the family not having yet subsided, the domestics, + like waves after the fall of a hurricane, had not yet exactly regained + their due limits, but were roaming wildly through the house. +</p> +<p> + "Aha, old Truepenny, art thou there?" said the Antiquary. "Sir Arthur, + let me bring in the messenger of good luck, though he is but a lame one. + You talked of the raven that scented out the slaughter from afar; but + here's a blue pigeon (somewhat of the oldest and toughest, I grant) who + smelled the good news six or seven miles off, flew thither in the + taxed-cart, and returned with the olive branch." +</p> +<p> + "Ye owe it o' to puir Robie that drave me;—puir fallow," said the + beggar, "he doubts he's in disgrace wi' my leddy and Sir Arthur." +</p> +<p> + Robert's repentant and bashful face was seen over the mendicant's + shoulder. +</p> +<p> + "In disgrace with me?" said Sir Arthur—"how so?"—for the irritation + into which he had worked himself on occasion of the toast had been long + forgotten. "O, I recollect—Robert, I was angry, and you were wrong;—go + about your work, and never answer a master that speaks to you in a + passion." +</p> +<p> + "Nor any one else," said the Antiquary; "for a soft answer turneth away + wrath." +</p> +<p> + "And tell your mother, who is so ill with the rheumatism, to come down to + the housekeeper to-morrow," said Miss Wardour, "and we will see what can + be of service to her." +</p> +<p> + "God bless your leddyship," said poor Robert, "and his honour Sir Arthur, + and the young laird, and the house of Knockwinnock in a' its branches, + far and near!—it's been a kind and gude house to the puir this mony + hundred years." +</p> +<p> + "There"—said the Antiquary to Sir Arthur—"we won't dispute—but there + you see the gratitude of the poor people naturally turns to the civil + virtues of your family. You don't hear them talk of Redhand, or + Hell-in-Harness. For me, I must say, <i>Odi accipitrem qui semper vivit in + armis</i>—so let us eat and drink in peace, and be joyful, Sir Knight." +</p> +<p> + A table was quickly covered in the parlour, where the party sat joyously + down to some refreshment. At the request of Oldbuck, Edie Ochiltree was + permitted to sit by the sideboard in a great leathern chair, which was + placed in some measure behind a screen. +</p> +<p> + "I accede to this the more readily," said Sir Arthur, "because I remember + in my fathers days that chair was occupied by Ailshie Gourlay, who, for + aught I know, was the last privileged fool, or jester, maintained by any + family of distinction in Scotland." +</p> +<p> + "Aweel, Sir Arthur," replied the beggar, who never hesitated an instant + between his friend and his jest, "mony a wise man sits in a fule's seat, + and mony a fule in a wise man's, especially in families o' distinction." +</p> +<p> + Miss Wardour, fearing the effect of this speech (however worthy of + Ailsbie Gourlay, or any other privileged jester) upon the nerves of her + father, hastened to inquire whether ale and beef should not be + distributed to the servants and people whom the news had assembled round + the Castle. +</p> +<p> + "Surely, my love," said her father; "when was it ever otherwise in our + families when a siege had been raised?" +</p> +<p> + "Ay, a siege laid by Saunders Sweepclean the bailiff, and raised by Edie + Ochiltree the gaberlunzie, <i>par nobile fratrum,</i>" said Oldbuck, "and well + pitted against each other in respectability. But never mind, Sir Arthur— + these are such sieges and such reliefs as our time of day admits of—and + our escape is not less worth commemorating in a glass of this excellent + wine—Upon my credit, it is Burgundy, I think." +</p> +<p> + "Were there anything better in the cellar," said Miss Wardour, "it would + be all too little to regale you after your friendly exertions." +</p> +<p> + "Say you so?" said the Antiquary: "why, then, a cup of thanks to you, my + fair enemy, and soon may you be besieged as ladies love best to be, and + sign terms of capitulation in the chapel of Saint Winnox!" +</p> +<p> + Miss Wardour blushed—Hector coloured, and then grew pale. +</p> +<p> + Sir Arthur answered, "My daughter is much obliged to you, Monkbarns; but + unless you'll accept of her yourself, I really do not know where a poor + knight's daughter is to seek for an alliance in these mercenary times." +</p> +<p> + "Me, mean ye, Sir Arthur? No, not I! I will claim privilege of the + duello, and, as being unable to encounter my fair enemy myself, I will + appear by my champion—But of this matter hereafter. What do you find in + the papers there, Hector, that you hold your head down over them as if + your nose were bleeding?" +</p> +<p> + "Nothing particular, sir; but only that, as my arm is now almost quite + well, I think I shall relieve you of my company in a day or two, and go + to Edinburgh. I see Major Neville is arrived there. I should like to see + him." +</p> +<p> + "Major whom?" said his uncle. +</p> +<p> + "Major Neville, sir," answered the young soldier. +</p> +<p> + "And who the devil is Major Neville?" demanded the Antiquary. +</p> +<p> + "O, Mr. Oldbuck," said Sir Arthur, "you must remember his name frequently + in the newspapers—a very distinguished young officer indeed. But I am + happy to say that Mr. M'Intyre need not leave Monkbarns to see him, for + my son writes that the Major is to come with him to Knockwinnock, and I + need not say how happy I shall be to make the young gentlemen + acquainted,—unless, indeed, they are known to each other already." +</p> +<p> + "No, not personally," answered Hector, "but I have had occasion to hear a + good deal of him, and we have several mutual friends—your son being one + of them. But I must go to Edinburgh; for I see my uncle is beginning to + grow tired of me, and I am afraid"— +</p> +<p> + "That you will grow tired of him?" interrupted Oldbuck,—"I fear that's + past praying for. But you have forgotten that the ecstatic twelfth of + August approaches, and that you are engaged to meet one of Lord + Glenallan's gamekeepers, God knows where, to persecute the peaceful + feathered creation." +</p> +<p> + "True, true, uncle—I had forgot that," exclaimed the volatile Hector; + "but you said something just now that put everything out of my head." +</p> +<p> + "An it like your honours," said old Edie, thrusting his white head from + behind the screen, where he had been plentifully regaling himself with + ale and cold meat—"an it like your honours, I can tell ye something that + will keep the Captain wi' us amaist as weel as the pouting—Hear ye na + the French are coming?" +</p> +<p> + "The French, you blockhead?" answered Oldbuck—"Bah!" +</p> +<p> + "I have not had time," said Sir Arthur Wardour, "to look over my + lieutenancy correspondence for the week—indeed, I generally make a rule + to read it only on Wednesdays, except in pressing cases,—for I do + everything by method; but from the glance I took of my letters, I + observed some alarm was entertained." +</p> +<p> + "Alarm?" said Edie, "troth there's alarm, for the provost's gar'd the + beacon light on the Halket-head be sorted up (that suld hae been sorted + half a year syne) in an unco hurry, and the council hae named nae less a + man than auld Caxon himsell to watch the light. Some say it was out o' + compliment to Lieutenant Taffril,—for it's neist to certain that he'll + marry Jenny Caxon,—some say it's to please your honour and Monkbarns + that wear wigs—and some say there's some auld story about a periwig that + ane o' the bailies got and neer paid for—Onyway, there he is, sitting + cockit up like a skart upon the tap o' the craig, to skirl when foul + weather comes." +</p> +<p> + "On mine honour, a pretty warder," said Monkbarns; "and what's my wig to + do all the while?" +</p> +<p> + "I asked Caxon that very question," answered Ochiltree, "and he said he + could look in ilka morning, and gie't a touch afore he gaed to his bed, + for there's another man to watch in the day-time, and Caxon says he'll + friz your honour's wig as weel sleeping as wauking." +</p> +<p> + This news gave a different turn to the conversation, which ran upon + national defence, and the duty of fighting for the land we live in, until + it was time to part. The Antiquary and his nephew resumed their walk + homeward, after parting from Knockwinnock with the warmest expressions of + mutual regard, and an agreement to meet again as soon as possible. +</p> +<a name="2HCH0023"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER TWENTY-THIRD. +</h2> +<pre> + Nay, if she love me not, I care not for her: + Shall I look pale because the maiden blooms + Or sigh because she smiles, and smiles on others + Not I, by Heaven!—I hold my peace too dear, + To let it, like the plume upon her cap, + Shake at each nod that her caprice shall dictate. + Old Play. +</pre> +<p> + "Hector," said his uncle to Captain M'Intyre, in the course of their walk + homeward, "I am sometimes inclined to suspect that, in one respect, you + are a fool." +</p> +<p> + "If you only think me so in <i>one</i> respect, sir, I am sure you do me more + grace than I expected or deserve." +</p> +<p> + "I mean in one particular <i>par excellence,</i>" answered the Antiquary. "I + have sometimes thought that you have cast your eyes upon Miss Wardour." +</p> +<p> + "Well, sir," said M'Intyre, with much composure. +</p> +<p> + "Well, sir," echoed his uncle—"Deuce take the fellow! he answers me as + if it were the most reasonable thing in the world, that he, a captain in + the army, and nothing at all besides, should marry the daughter of a + baronet." +</p> +<p> + "I presume to think, sir," said the young Highlander, "there would be no + degradation on Miss Wardour's part in point of family." +</p> +<p> + "O, Heaven forbid we should come on that topic!—No, no, equal both—both + on the table-land of gentility, and qualified to look down on every + <i>roturier</i> in Scotland." +</p> +<p> + "And in point of fortune we are pretty even, since neither of us have got + any," continued Hector. "There may be an error, but I cannot plead guilty + to presumption." +</p> +<p> + "But here lies the error, then, if you call it so," replied his uncle: + "she won't have you, Hector." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed, sir?" +</p> +<p> + "It is very sure, Hector; and to make it double sure, I must inform you + that she likes another man. She misunderstood some words I once said to + her, and I have since been able to guess at the interpretation she put on + them. At the time I was unable to account for her hesitation and + blushing; but, my poor Hector, I now understand them as a death-signal to + your hopes and pretensions. So I advise you to beat your retreat and draw + off your forces as well as you can, for the fort is too well garrisoned + for you to storm it." +</p> +<p> + "I have no occasion to beat any retreat, uncle," said Hector, holding + himself very upright, and marching with a sort of dogged and offended + solemnity; "no man needs to retreat that has never advanced. There are + women in Scotland besides Miss Wardour, of as good family"— +</p> +<p> + "And better taste," said his uncle; "doubtless there are, Hector; and + though I cannot say but that she is one of the most accomplished as well + as sensible girls I have seen, yet I doubt, much of her merit would be + cast away on you. A showy figure, now, with two cross feathers above her + noddle—one green, one blue; who would wear a riding-habit of the + regimental complexion, drive a gig one day, and the next review the + regiment on the grey trotting pony which dragged that vehicle, <i>hoc erat + in votis;</i>—these are the qualities that would subdue you, especially if + she had a taste for natural history, and loved a specimen of a <i>phoca.</i>" +</p> +<p> + "It's a little hard, sir," said Hector, "I must have that cursed seal + thrown into my face on all occasions—but I care little about it—and I + shall not break my heart for Miss Wardour. She is free to choose for + herself, and I wish her all happiness." +</p> +<p> + "Magnanimously resolved, thou prop of Troy! Why, Hector, I was afraid of + a scene. Your sister told me you were desperately in love with Miss + Wardour." +</p> +<p> + "Sir," answered the young man, "you would not have me desperately in love + with a woman that does not care about me?" +</p> +<p> + "Well, nephew," said the Antiquary, more seriously, "there is doubtless + much sense in what you say; yet I would have given a great deal, some + twenty or twenty-five years since, to have been able to think as you do." +</p> +<p> + "Anybody, I suppose, may think as they please on such subjects," said + Hector. +</p> +<p> + "Not according to the old school," said Oldbuck; "but, as I said before, + the practice of the modern seems in this case the most prudential, + though, I think, scarcely the most interesting. But tell me your ideas + now on this prevailing subject of an invasion. The cry is still, They + come." +</p> +<p> + Hector, swallowing his mortification, which he was peculiarly anxious to + conceal from his uncle's satirical observation, readily entered into a + conversation which was to turn the Antiquary's thoughts from Miss Wardour + and the seal. When they reached Monkbarns, the communicating to the + ladies the events which had taken place at the castle, with the + counter-information of how long dinner had waited before the womankind + had ventured to eat it in the Antiquary's absence, averted these delicate + topics of discussion. +</p> +<p> + The next morning the Antiquary arose early, and, as Caxon had not yet + made his appearance, he began mentally to feel the absence of the petty + news and small talk of which the ex-peruquier was a faithful reporter, + and which habit had made as necessary to the Antiquary as his occasional + pinch of snuff, although he held, or affected to hold, both to be of the + same intrinsic value. The feeling of vacuity peculiar to such a + deprivation, was alleviated by the appearance of old Ochiltree, + sauntering beside the clipped yew and holly hedges, with the air of a + person quite at home. Indeed, so familiar had he been of late, that even + Juno did not bark at him, but contented herself with watching him with a + close and vigilant eye. Our Antiquary stepped out in his night-gown, and + instantly received and returned his greeting. +</p> +<p> + "They are coming now, in good earnest, Monkbarns. I just cam frae + Fairport to bring ye the news, and then I'll step away back again. The + Search has just come into the bay, and they say she's been chased by a + French fleet. +</p> +<p> + "The Search?" said Oldbuck, reflecting a moment. "Oho!" +</p> +<p> + "Ay, ay, Captain Taffril's gun-brig, the Search." +</p> +<p> + "What? any relation to <i>Search, No. II.?</i>" said Oldbuck, catching at the + light which the name of the vessel seemed to throw on the mysterious + chest of treasure. +</p> +<p> + The mendicant, like a man detected in a frolic, put his bonnet before his + face, yet could not help laughing heartily.—"The deil's in you, + Monkbarns, for garring odds and evens meet. Wha thought ye wad hae laid + that and that thegither? Od, I am clean catch'd now." +</p> +<p> + "I see it all," said Oldbuck, "as plain as the legend on a medal of high + preservation—the box in which the' bullion was found belonged to the + gun-brig, and the treasure to my phoenix?"—(Edie nodded assent),—"and + was buried there that Sir Arthur might receive relief in his + difficulties?" +</p> +<p> + "By me," said Edie, "and twa o' the brig's men—but they didna ken its + contents, and thought it some bit smuggling concern o' the Captain's. I + watched day and night till I saw it in the right hand; and then, when + that German deevil was glowering at the lid o' the kist (they liked + mutton weel that licked where the yowe lay), I think some Scottish deevil + put it into my head to play him yon ither cantrip. Now, ye see, if I had + said mair or less to Bailie Littlejohn, I behoved till hae come out wi' + a' this story; and vexed would Mr. Lovel hae been to have it brought to + light—sae I thought I would stand to onything rather than that." +</p> +<p> + "I must say he has chosen his confidant well," said Oldbuck, "though + somewhat strangely." +</p> +<p> + "I'll say this for mysell, Monkbarns," answered the mendicant, "that I am + the fittest man in the haill country to trust wi' siller, for I neither + want it, nor wish for it, nor could use it if I had it. But the lad hadna + muckle choice in the matter, for he thought he was leaving the country + for ever (I trust he's mistaen in that though); and the night was set in + when we learned, by a strange chance, Sir Arthur's sair distress, and + Lovel was obliged to be on board as the day dawned. But five nights + afterwards the brig stood into the bay, and I met the boat by + appointment, and we buried the treasure where ye fand it." +</p> +<p> + "This was a very romantic, foolish exploit," said Oldbuck: "why not trust + me, or any other friend?" +</p> +<p> + "The blood o' your sister's son," replied Edie, "was on his hands, and + him maybe dead outright—what time had he to take counsel?—or how could + he ask it of you, by onybody?" +</p> +<p> + "You are right. But what if Dousterswivel had come before you?" +</p> +<p> + "There was little fear o' his coming there without Sir Arthur: he had + gotten a sair gliff the night afore, and never intended to look near the + place again, unless he had been brought there sting and ling. He ken'd + weel the first pose was o' his ain hiding, and how could he expect a + second? He just havered on about it to make the mair o' Sir Arthur." +</p> +<p> + "Then how," said Oldbuck, "should Sir Arthur have come there unless the + German had brought him?" +</p> +<p> + "Umph!" answered Edie drily. "I had a story about Misticot wad hae + brought him forty miles, or you either. Besides, it was to be thought he + would be for visiting the place he fand the first siller in—he ken'd na + the secret o' that job. In short, the siller being in this shape, Sir + Arthur in utter difficulties, and Lovel determined he should never ken + the hand that helped him,—for that was what he insisted maist upon,—we + couldna think o' a better way to fling the gear in his gate, though we + simmered it and wintered it e'er sae lang. And if by ony queer mischance + Doustercivil had got his claws on't, I was instantly to hae informed you + or the Sheriff o' the haill story." +</p> +<p> + "Well, notwithstanding all these wise precautions, I think your + contrivance succeeded better than such a clumsy one deserved, Edie. But + how the deuce came Lovel by such a mass of silver ingots?" +</p> +<p> + "That's just what I canna tell ye—But they were put on board wi' his + things at Fairport, it's like, and we stowed them into ane o' the + ammunition-boxes o' the brig, baith for concealment and convenience of + carriage." +</p> +<p> + "Lord!" said Oldbuck, his recollection recurring to the earlier part of + his acquaintance with Lovel; "and this young fellow, who was putting + hundreds on so strange a hazard, I must be recommending a subscription to + him, and paying his bill at the Ferry! I never will pay any person's bill + again, that's certain.—And you kept up a constant correspondence with + Lovel, I suppose?" +</p> +<p> + "I just gat ae bit scrape o' a pen frae him, to say there wad, as + yesterday fell, be a packet at Tannonburgh, wi' letters o' great + consequence to the Knockwinnock folk; for they jaloused the opening of + our letters at Fairport—And that's a's true; I hear Mrs. Mailsetter is + to lose her office for looking after other folk's business and neglecting + her ain." +</p> +<p> + "And what do you expect now, Edie, for being the adviser, and messenger, + and guard, and confidential person in all these matters?" +</p> +<p> + "Deil haet do I expect—excepting that a' the gentles will come to the + gaberlunzie's burial; and maybe ye'll carry the head yoursell, as ye did + puir Steenie Mucklebackit's.—What trouble was't to me? I was ganging + about at ony rate—Oh, but I was blythe when I got out of Prison, though; + for I thought, what if that weary letter should come when I am closed up + here like an oyster, and a' should gang wrang for want o't? and whiles I + thought I maun mak a clean breast and tell you a' about it; but then I + couldna weel do that without contravening Mr. Lovel's positive orders; + and I reckon he had to see somebody at Edinburgh afore he could do what + he wussed to do for Sir Arthur and his family." +</p> +<p> + "Well, and to your public news, Edie—So they are still coming are they?" +</p> +<p> + "Troth they say sae, sir; and there's come down strict orders for the + forces and volunteers to be alert; and there's a clever young officer to + come here forthwith, to look at our means o' defence—I saw the Bailies + lass cleaning his belts and white breeks—I gae her a hand, for ye maun + think she wasna ower clever at it, and sae I gat a' the news for my + pains." +</p> +<p> + "And what think you, as an old soldier?" +</p> +<p> + "Troth I kenna—an they come so mony as they speak o', they'll be odds + against us. But there's mony yauld chields amang thae volunteers; and I + mauna say muckle about them that's no weel and no very able, because I am + something that gate mysell—But we'se do our best." +</p> +<p> + "What! so your martial spirit is rising again, Edie? +</p> +<pre> + Even in our ashes glow their wonted fires! +</pre> +<p> + I would not have thought you, Edie, had so much to fight for?" +</p> +<p> + "<i>Me</i> no muckle to fight for, sir?—isna there the country to fight for, + and the burnsides that I gang daundering beside, and the hearths o'the + gudewives that gie me my bit bread, and the bits o' weans that come + toddling to play wi' me when I come about a landward town?—Deil!" he + continued, grasping his pike-staff with great emphasis, "an I had as gude + pith as I hae gude-will, and a gude cause, I should gie some o' them a + day's kemping." +</p> +<p> + "Bravo, bravo, Edie! The country's in little ultimate danger, when the + beggar's as ready to fight for his dish as the laird for his land." +</p> +<p> + Their further conversation reverted to the particulars of the night + passed by the mendicant and Lovel in the ruins of St. Ruth; by the + details of which the Antiquary was highly amused. +</p> +<p> + "I would have given a guinea," he said, "to have seen the scoundrelly + German under the agonies of those terrors, which it is part of his own + quackery to inspire into others; and trembling alternately for the fury + of his patron, and the apparition of some hobgoblin." +</p> +<p> + "Troth," said the beggar, "there was time for him to be cowed; for ye wad + hae thought the very spirit of Hell-in-Harness had taken possession o' + the body o' Sir Arthur. But what will come o' the land-louper?" +</p> +<p> + "I have had a letter this morning, from which I understand he has + acquitted you of the charge he brought against you, and offers to make + such discoveries as will render the settlement of Sir Arthur's affairs a + more easy task than we apprehended—So writes the Sheriff; and adds, that + he has given some private information of importance to Government, in + consideration of which, I understand he will be sent back to play the + knave in his own country." +</p> +<p> + "And a' the bonny engines, and wheels, and the coves, and sheughs, doun + at Glenwithershins yonder, what's to come o' them?" said Edie. +</p> +<p> + "I hope the men, before they are dispersed, will make a bonfire of their + gimcracks, as an army destroy their artillery when forced to raise a + siege. And as for the holes, Edie, I abandon them as rat-traps, for the + benefit of the next wise men who may choose to drop the substance to + snatch at a shadow." +</p> +<p> + "Hech, sirs! guide us a'! to burn the engines? that's a great waste—Had + ye na better try to get back part o' your hundred pounds wi' the sale o' + the materials?" he continued, with a tone of affected condolence. +</p> +<p> + "Not a farthing," said the Antiquary, peevishly, taking a turn from him, + and making a step or two away. Then returning, half-smiling at his own + pettishness, he said, "Get thee into the house, Edie, and remember my + counsel, never speak to me about a mine, nor to my nephew Hector about a + <i>phoca,</i> that is a sealgh, as you call it." +</p> +<p> + "I maun be ganging my ways back to Fairport," said the wanderer; "I want + to see what they're saying there about the invasion;—but I'll mind what + your honour says, no to speak to you about a sealgh, or to the Captain + about the hundred pounds that you gied to Douster"— +</p> +<p> + "Confound thee!—I desired thee not to mention that to me." +</p> +<p> + "Dear me!" said Edie, with affected surprise; "weel, I thought there was + naething but what your honour could hae studden in the way o' agreeable + conversation, unless it was about the Praetorian yonder, or the bodle + that the packman sauld to ye for an auld coin." +</p> +<p> + "Pshaw! pshaw!" said the Antiquary, turning from him hastily, and + retreating into the house. +</p> +<p> + The mendicant looked after him a moment, and with a chuckling laugh, such + as that with which a magpie or parrot applauds a successful exploit of + mischief, he resumed once more the road to Fairport. His habits had given + him a sort of restlessness, much increased by the pleasure he took in + gathering news; and in a short time he had regained the town which he + left in the morning, for no reason that he knew himself, unless just to + "hae a bit crack wi' Monkbarns." +</p> +<a name="2HCH0024"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + CHAPTER TWENTY-FOURTH. +</h2> +<pre> + Red glared the beacon on Pownell + On Skiddaw there were three; + The bugle horn on moor and fell + Was heard continually. + James Hogg. +</pre> +<p> + The watch who kept his watch on the hill, and looked towards Birnam, + probably conceived himself dreaming when he first beheld the fated grove + put itself into motion for its march to Dunsinane. Even so old Caxon, as + perched in his hut, he qualified his thoughts upon the approaching + marriage of his daughter, and the dignity of being father-in-law to + Lieutenant Taffril, with an occasional peep towards the signal-post with + which his own corresponded, was not a little surprised by observing a + light in that direction. He rubbed his eyes, looked again, adjusting his + observation by a cross-staff which had been placed so as to bear upon the + point. And behold, the light increased, like a comet to the eye of the + astronomer, "with fear of change perplexing nations." +</p> +<p> + "The Lord preserve us!" said Caxon, "what's to be done now? But there + will be wiser heads than mine to look to that, sae I'se e'en fire the + beacon." +</p> +<p> + And he lighted the beacon accordingly, which threw up to the sky a long + wavering train of light, startling the sea-fowl from their nests, and + reflected far beneath by the reddening billows of the sea. The brother + warders of Caxon being equally diligent, caught, and repeated his signal. + The lights glanced on headlands and capes and inland hills, and the whole + district was alarmed by the signal of invasion. * +</p> +<p> + * Note J. Alarms of Invasion. +</p> +<p> + Our Antiquary, his head wrapped warm in two double night-caps, was + quietly enjoying his repose, when it was suddenly broken by the screams + of his sister, his niece, and two maid-servants. +</p> +<p> + "What the devil is the matter?" said he, starting up in his bed— + "womankind in my room at this hour of night!—are ye all mad?" +</p> +<p> + "The beacon, uncle!" said Miss M'Intyre. +</p> +<p> + "The French coming to murder us!" screamed Miss Griselda. +</p> +<p> + "The beacon! the beacon!—the French! the French!—murder! murder! and + waur than murder!"—cried the two handmaidens, like the chorus of an + opera. +</p> +<a name="image-0009"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/pb294.jpg" height="807" width="545" +alt="The Antiquary Arming +"> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<p> + "The French?" said Oldbuck, starting up—"get out of the room, womankind + that you are, till I get my things on—And hark ye, bring me my sword." +</p> +<p> + "Whilk o' them, Monkbarns?" cried his sister, offering a Roman falchion + of brass with the one hand, and with the other an Andrea Ferrara without + a handle. +</p> +<p> + "The langest, the langest," cried Jenny Rintherout, dragging in a + two-handed sword of the twelfth century. +</p> +<p> + "Womankind," said Oldbuck in great agitation, "be composed, and do not + give way to vain terror—Are you sure they are come?" +</p> +<p> + "Sure, sure!" exclaimed Jenny—"ower sure!—a' the sea fencibles, and the + land fencibles, and the volunteers and yeomanry, are on fit, and driving + to Fairport as hard as horse and man can gang—and auld Mucklebackit's + gane wi' the lave—muckle gude he'll do!—Hech, sirs!—<i>he'll</i> be missed + the morn wha wad hae served king and country weel!" +</p> +<p> + "Give me," said Oldbuck, "the sword which my father wore in the year + forty-five—it hath no belt or baldrick—but we'll make shift." +</p> +<p> + So saying he thrust the weapon through the cover of his breeches pocket. + At this moment Hector entered, who had been to a neighbouring height to + ascertain whether the alarm was actual. +</p> +<p> + "Where are your arms, nephew?" exclaimed Oldbuck—"where is your + double-barrelled gun, that was never out of your hand when there was no + occasion for such vanities?" +</p> +<p> + "Pooh! pooh! sir," said Hector, "who ever took a fowling-piece on action? + I have got my uniform on, you see—I hope I shall be of more use if they + will give me a command than I could be with ten double-barrels. And you, + sir, must get to Fairport, to give directions for quartering and + maintaining the men and horses, and preventing confusion." +</p> +<p> + "You are right, Hector,—l believe I shall do as much with my head as my + hand too. But here comes Sir Arthur Wardour, who, between ourselves, is + not fit to accomplish much either one way or the other." +</p> +<p> + Sir Arthur was probably of a different opinion; for, dressed in his + lieutenancy uniform, he was also on the road to Fairport, and called in + his way to take Mr. Oldbuck with him, having had his original opinion of + his sagacity much confirmed by late events. And in spite of all the + entreaties of the womankind that the Antiquary would stay to garrison + Monkbarns, Mr. Oldbuck, with his nephew, instantly accepted Sir Arthur's + offer. +</p> +<p> + Those who have witnessed such a scene can alone conceive the state of + bustle in Fairport. The windows were glancing with a hundred lights, + which, appearing and disappearing rapidly, indicated the confusion within + doors. The women of lower rank assembled and clamoured in the + market-place. The yeomanry, pouring from their different glens, galloped + through the streets, some individually, some in parties of five or six, + as they had met on the road. The drums and fifes of the volunteers + beating to arms, were blended with the voice of the officers, the sound + of the bugles, and the tolling of the bells from the steeple. The ships + in the harbour were lit up, and boats from the armed vessels added to the + bustle, by landing men and guns destined to assist in the defence of the + place. This part of the preparations was superintended by Taffril with + much activity. Two or three light vessels had already slipped their + cables and stood out to sea, in order to discover the supposed enemy. +</p> +<p> + Such was the scene of general confusion, when Sir Arthur Wardour, + Oldbuck, and Hector, made their way with difficulty into the principal + square, where the town-house is situated. It was lighted up, and the + magistracy, with many of the neighbouring gentlemen, were assembled. And + here, as upon other occasions of the like kind in Scotland, it was + remarkable how the good sense and firmness of the people supplied almost + all the deficiencies of inexperience. +</p> +<p> + The magistrates were beset by the quarter-masters of the different corps + for billets for men and horses. "Let us," said Bailie Littlejohn, "take + the horses into our warehouses, and the men into our parlours—share our + supper with the one, and our forage with the other. We have made + ourselves wealthy under a free and paternal government, and now is the + time to show we know its value." +</p> +<p> + A loud and cheerful acquiescence was given by all present, and the + substance of the wealthy, with the persons of those of all ranks, were + unanimously devoted to the defence of the country. +</p> +<p> + Captain M'Intyre acted on this occasion as military adviser and + aide-de-camp to the principal magistrate, and displayed a degree of + presence of mind, and knowledge of his profession, totally unexpected by + his uncle, who, recollecting his usual <i>insouciance</i> and impetuosity, + gazed at him with astonishment from time to time, as he remarked the calm + and steady manner in which he explained the various measures of + precaution that his experience suggested, and gave directions for + executing them. He found the different corps in good order, considering + the irregular materials of which they were composed, in great force of + numbers and high confidence and spirits. And so much did military + experience at that moment overbalance all other claims to consequence, + that even old Edie, instead of being left, like Diogenes at Sinope, to + roll his tub when all around were preparing for defence, had the duty + assigned him of superintending the serving out of the ammunition, which + he executed with much discretion. +</p> +<p> + Two things were still anxiously expected—the presence of the Glenallan + volunteers, who, in consideration of the importance of that family, had + been formed into a separate corps, and the arrival of the officer before + announced, to whom the measures of defence on that coast had been + committed by the commander-in-chief, and whose commission would entitle + him to take upon himself the full disposal of the military force. +</p> +<p> + At length the bugles of the Glenallan yeomanry were heard, and the Earl + himself, to the surprise of all who knew his habits and state of health, + appeared at their head in uniform. They formed a very handsome and + well-mounted squadron, formed entirely out of the Earl's Lowland tenants, + and were followed by a regiment of five hundred men, completely equipped + in the Highland dress, whom he had brought down from the upland glens, + with their pipes playing in the van. The clean and serviceable appearance + of this band of feudal dependants called forth the admiration of Captain + M'Intyre; but his uncle was still more struck by the manner in which, + upon this crisis, the ancient military spirit of his house seemed to + animate and invigorate the decayed frame of the Earl, their leader. He + claimed, and obtained for himself and his followers, the post most likely + to be that of danger, displayed great alacrity in making the necessary + dispositions, and showed equal acuteness in discussing their propriety. + Morning broke in upon the military councils of Fairport, while all + concerned were still eagerly engaged in taking precautions for their + defence. +</p> +<p> + At length a cry among the people announced, "There's the brave Major + Neville come at last, with another officer;" and their post-chaise and + four drove into the square, amidst the huzzas of the volunteers and + inhabitants. The magistrates, with their assessors of the lieutenancy, + hastened to the door of their town-house to receive him; but what was the + surprise of all present, but most especially that of the Antiquary, when + they became aware, that the handsome uniform and military cap disclosed + the person and features of the pacific Lovel! A warm embrace, and a + hearty shake of the hand, were necessary to assure him that his eyes were + doing him justice. Sir Arthur was no less surprised to recognise his son, + Captain Wardour, in Lovel's, or rather Major Neville's company. The first + words of the young officers were a positive assurance to all present, + that the courage and zeal which they had displayed were entirely thrown + away, unless in so far as they afforded an acceptable proof of their + spirit and promptitude. +</p> +<p> + "The watchman at Halket-head," said Major Neville, "as we discovered by + an investigation which we made in our route hither, was most naturally + misled by a bonfire which some idle people had made on the hill above + Glenwithershins, just in the line of the beacon with which his + corresponded." +</p> +<p> + Oldbuck gave a conscious look to Sir Arthur, who returned it with one + equally sheepish, and a shrug of the shoulders, +</p> +<p> + "It must have been the machinery which we condemned to the flames in our + wrath," said the Antiquary, plucking up heart, though not a little + ashamed of having been the cause of so much disturbance—"The devil take + Dousterswivel with all my heart!—I think he has bequeathed us a legacy + of blunders and mischief, as if he had lighted some train of fireworks at + his departure. I wonder what cracker will go off next among our shins. + But yonder comes the prudent Caxon.—Hold up your head, you ass—your + betters must bear the blame for you—And here, take this what-d'ye-call + it"—(giving him his sword)—"I wonder what I would have said yesterday + to any man that would have told me I was to stick such an appendage to my + tail." +</p> +<p> + Here he found his arm gently pressed by Lord Glenallan, who dragged him + into a separate apartment. "For God's sake, who is that young gentleman + who is so strikingly like"— +</p> +<p> + "Like the unfortunate Eveline," interrupted Oldbuck. "I felt my heart + warm to him from the first, and your lordship has suggested the very + cause." +</p> +<p> + "But who—who is he?" continued Lord Glenallan, holding the Antiquary + with a convulsive grasp. +</p> +<p> + "Formerly I would have called him Lovel, but now he turns out to be Major + Neville." +</p> +<p> + "Whom my brother brought up as his natural son—whom he made his heir— + Gracious Heaven! the child of my Eveline!" +</p> +<p> + "Hold, my lord—hold!" said Oldbuck, "do not give too hasty way to such a + presumption;—what probability is there?" +</p> +<p> + "Probability? none! There is certainty! absolute certainty! The agent I + mentioned to you wrote me the whole story—I received it yesterday, not + sooner. Bring him, for God's sake, that a father's eyes may bless him + before he departs." +</p> +<p> + "I will; but for your own sake and his, give him a few moments for + preparation." +</p> +<p> + And, determined to make still farther investigation before yielding his + entire conviction to so strange a tale, he sought out Major Neville, and + found him expediting the necessary measures for dispersing the force + which had been assembled. +</p> +<p> + "Pray, Major Neville, leave this business for a moment to Captain Wardour + and to Hector, with whom, I hope, you are thoroughly reconciled" (Neville + laughed, and shook hands with Hector across the table), "and grant me a + moment's audience." +</p> +<p> + "You have a claim on me, Mr. Oldbuck, were my business more urgent," said + Neville, "for having passed myself upon you under a false name, and + rewarding your hospitality by injuring your nephew." +</p> +<p> + "You served him as he deserved," said Oldbuck—"though, by the way, he + showed as much good sense as spirit to-day—Egad! if he would rub up his + learning, and read Caesar and Polybus, and the <i>Stratagemata Polyaeni,</i> I + think he would rise in the army—and I will certainly lend him a lift." +</p> +<p> + "He is heartily deserving of it," said Neville; "and I am glad you excuse + me, which you may do the more frankly, when you know that I am so + unfortunate as to have no better right to the name of Neville, by which I + have been generally distinguished, than to that of Lovel, under which you + knew me." +</p> +<p> + "Indeed! then, I trust, we shall find out one for you to which you shall + have a firm and legal title." +</p> +<p> + "Sir!—I trust you do not think the misfortune of my birth a fit + subject"— +</p> +<p> + "By no means, young man," answered the Antiquary, interrupting him;—"I + believe I know more of your birth than you do yourself—and, to convince + you of it, you were educated and known as a natural son of Geraldin + Neville of Neville's-Burgh, in Yorkshire, and I presume, as his destined + heir?" +</p> +<p> + "Pardon me—no such views were held out to me. I was liberally educated, + and pushed forward in the army by money and interest; but I believe my + supposed father long entertained some ideas of marriage, though he never + carried them into effect." +</p> +<p> + "You say your <i>supposed</i> father?—What leads you to suppose Mr. Geraldin + Neville was not your real father?" +</p> +<p> + "I know, Mr. Oldbuck, that you would not ask these questions on a point + of such delicacy for the gratification of idle curiosity. I will + therefore tell you candidly, that last year, while we occupied a small + town in French Flanders, I found in a convent, near which I was + quartered, a woman who spoke remarkably good English—She was a + Spaniard—her name Teresa D'Acunha. In the process of our acquaintance, she + discovered who I was, and made herself known to me as the person who had + charge of my infancy. She dropped more than one hint of rank to which I + was entitled, and of injustice done to me, promising a more full + disclosure in case of the death of a lady in Scotland, during whose + lifetime she was determined to keep the secret. She also intimated that + Mr. Geraldin Neville was not my father. We were attacked by the enemy, + and driven from the town, which was pillaged with savage ferocity by the + republicans. The religious orders were the particular objects of their + hate and cruelty. The convent was burned, and several nuns perished— + among others Teresa; and with her all chance of knowing the story of my + birth: tragic by all accounts it must have been." +</p> +<p> + "<i>Raro antecedentem scelestum,</i> or, as I may here say, <i>scelestam,</i>" said + Oldbuck, "<i>deseruit poena</i>—even Epicureans admitted that. And what did + you do upon this?" +</p> +<p> + "I remonstrated with Mr. Neville by letter, and to no purpose. I then + obtained leave of absence, and threw myself at his feet, conjuring him to + complete the disclosure which Teresa had begun. He refused, and, on my + importunity, indignantly upbraided me with the favours he had already + conferred. I thought he abused the power of a benefactor, as he was + compelled to admit he had no title to that of a father, and we parted in + mutual displeasure. I renounced the name of Neville, and assumed that + under which you knew me. It was at this time, when residing with a friend + in the north of England who favoured my disguise, that I became + acquainted with Miss Wardour, and was romantic enough to follow her to + Scotland. My mind wavered on various plans of life, when I resolved to + apply once more to Mr. Neville for an explanation of the mystery of my + birth. It was long ere I received an answer; you were present when it was + put into my hands. He informed me of his bad state of health, and + conjured me, for my own sake, to inquire no farther into the nature of + his connection with me, but to rest satisfied with his declaring it to be + such and so intimate, that he designed to constitute me his heir. When I + was preparing to leave Fairport to join him, a second express brought me + word that he was no more. The possession of great wealth was unable to + suppress the remorseful feelings with which I now regarded my conduct to + my benefactor, and some hints in his letter appearing to intimate there + was on my birth a deeper stain than that of ordinary illegitimacy, I + remembered certain prejudices of Sir Arthur." +</p> +<p> + "And you brooded over these melancholy ideas until you were ill, instead + of coming to me for advice, and telling me the whole story?" said + Oldbuck. +</p> +<p> + "Exactly; then came my quarrel with Captain M'Intyre, and my compelled + departure from Fairport and its vicinity." +</p> +<p> + "From love and from poetry—Miss Wardour and the Caledoniad?" +</p> +<p> + "Most true." +</p> +<p> + "And since that time you have been occupied, I suppose, with plans for + Sir Arthur's relief?" +</p> +<p> + "Yes, sir; with the assistance of Captain Wardour at Edinburgh." +</p> +<p> + "And Edie Ochiltree here—you see I know the whole story. But how came + you by the treasure?" +</p> +<p> + "It was a quantity of plate which had belonged to my uncle, and was left + in the custody of a person at Fairport. Some time before his death he had + sent orders that it should be melted down. He perhaps did not wish me to + see the Glenallan arms upon it." +</p> +<p> + "Well, Major Neville—or let me say, Lovel, being the name in which I + rather delight—you must, I believe, exchange both of your <i>alias's</i> for + the style and title of the Honourable William Geraldin, commonly called + Lord Geraldin." +</p> +<p> + The Antiquary then went through the strange and melancholy circumstances + concerning his mother's death. +</p> +<p> + "I have no doubt," he said, "that your uncle wished the report to be + believed, that the child of this unhappy marriage was no more—perhaps he + might himself have an eye to the inheritance of his brother—he was then + a gay wild young man—But of all intentions against your person, however + much the evil conscience of Elspeth might lead her to inspect him from + the agitation in which he appeared, Teresa's story and your own fully + acquit him. And now, my dear sir, let me have the pleasure of introducing + a son to a father." +</p> +<p> + We will not attempt to describe such a meeting. The proofs on all sides + were found to be complete, for Mr. Neville had left a distinct account of + the whole transaction with his confidential steward in a sealed packet, + which was not to be opened until the death of the old Countess; his + motive for preserving secrecy so long appearing to have been an + apprehension of the effect which the discovery, fraught with so much + disgrace, must necessarily produce upon her haughty and violent temper. +</p> +<p> + In the evening of that day, the yeomanry and volunteers of Glenallan + drank prosperity to their young master. In a month afterwards Lord + Geraldin was married to Miss Wardour, the Antiquary making the lady a + present of the wedding ring—a massy circle of antique chasing, bearing + the motto of Aldobrand Oldenbuck, <i>Kunst macht gunst.</i> +</p> +<p> + Old Edie, the most important man that ever wore a blue gown, bowls away + easily from one friend's house to another, and boasts that he never + travels unless on a sunny day. Latterly, indeed, he has given some + symptoms of becoming stationary, being frequently found in the corner of + a snug cottage between Monkbarns and Knockwinnock, to which Caxon + retreated upon his daughter's marriage, in order to be in the + neighbourhood of the three parochial wigs, which he continues to keep in + repair, though only for amusement. Edie has been heard to say, "This is a + gey bein place, and it's a comfort to hae sic a corner to sit in in a bad + day." It is thought, as he grows stiffer in the joints, he will finally + settle there. +</p> +<p> + The bounty of such wealthy patrons as Lord and Lady Geraldin flowed + copiously upon Mrs. Hadoway and upon the Mucklebackits. By the former it + was well employed, by the latter wasted. They continue, however, to + receive it, but under the administration of Edie Ochiltree; and they do + not accept it without grumbling at the channel through which it is + conveyed. +</p> +<p> + Hector is rising rapidly in the army, and has been more than once + mentioned in the Gazette, and rises proportionally high in his uncle's + favour; and what scarcely pleases the young soldier less, he has also + shot two seals, and thus put an end to the Antiquary's perpetual harping + upon the story of the <i>phoca.</i>People talk of a marriage between Miss + M'Intyre and Captain Wardour; but this wants confirmation. +</p> +<p> + The Antiquary is a frequent visitor at Knockwinnock and Glenallan House, + ostensibly for the sake of completing two essays, one on the mail-shirt + of the Great Earl, and the other on the left-hand gauntlet of + Hell-in-Harness. He regularly inquires whether Lord Geraldin has + commenced the Caledoniad, and shakes his head at the answers he + receives.<i>En attendant,</i> however, he has completed his notes, which, we + believe, will be at the service of any one who chooses to make them + public without risk or expense to THE ANTIQUARY. +</p> +<a name="2H_NOTE"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + NOTES TO THE ANTIQUARY. +</h2> +<p> + Note A, p. #.—Mottoes. +</p> +<p> + ["It was in correcting the proof-sheets of this novel that Scott first + took to equipping his chapters with mottoes of his own fabrication. On + one occasion he happened to ask John Ballantyne, who was sitting by him, + to hunt for a particular passage in Beaumont and Fletcher. John did as he + was bid, but did not succeed in discovering the lines. 'Hang it, + Johnnie,' cried Scott, 'I believe I can make a motto sooner than you will + find one.' He did so accordingly; and from that hour, whenever memory + failed to suggest an appropriate epigraph, he had recourse to the + inexhaustible mines of "old play" or "old ballad," to which we owe some + of the most exquisite verses that ever flowed from his pen."—<i>J. G. + Lockhart.</i> +</p> +<p> + See also the Introduction to "Chronicles of the Canongate," vol. xix.] +</p> +<p> + Note B, p. #.—Sandy Gordon's Itinerarium. +</p> +<p> + [This well-known work, the "Itinerarium Septentrionale, or a Journey + thro' most of the Counties of Scotland, and those in the North of + England," was published at London in 1727, folio. The author states, that + in prosecuting his work he "made a pretty laborious progress through + almost every part of Scotland for three years successively." Gordon was + a native of Aberdeenshire, and had previously spent some years in + travelling abroad, probably as a tutor. He became Secretary to the London + Society of Antiquaries in 1736. This office he resigned in 1741, and soon + after went out to South Carolina with Governor Glen, where he obtained a + considerable grant of land. On his death, about the year 1753, he is said + to have left "a handsome estate to his family."—See <i>Literary Anecdotes + of Bowyer,</i> by John Nichols, vol. v., p. 329, etc.] +</p> +<p> + Note C, p. #.—Praetorium. +</p> +<p> + It may be worth while to mention that the incident of the supposed + Praetorium actually happened to an antiquary of great learning and + acuteness, Sir John Clerk of Penicuik, one of the Barons of the Scottish + Court of Exchequer, and a parliamentary commissioner for arrangement of + the Union between England and Scotland. As many of his writings show, Sir + John was much attached to the study of Scottish antiquities. He had a + small property in Dumfriesshire, near the Roman station on the hill + called Burrenswark. Here he received the distinguished English + antiquarian Roger Gale, and of course conducted him to see this + remarkable spot, where the lords of the world have left such decisive + marks of their martial labours. +</p> +<p> + An aged shepherd whom they had used as a guide, or who had approached + them from curiosity, listened with mouth agape to the dissertations on + foss and vellum, ports <i>dextra, sinistra,</i> and <i>decumana,</i> which Sir John + Clerk delivered <i>ex cathedra,</i> and his learned visitor listened with the + deference to the dignity of a connoisseur on his own ground. But when the + cicerone proceeded to point out a small hillock near the centre of the + enclosure as the Praetorium, Corydon's patience could hold no longer, + and, like Edie Ochiltree, he forgot all reverence, and broke in with + nearly the same words—"Praetorium here, Praetorium there, I made the + bourock mysell with a flaughter-spade." The effect of this undeniable + evidence on the two lettered sages may be left to the reader's + imagination. +</p> +<p> + The late excellent and venerable John Clerk of Eldin, the celebrated + author of <i>Naval Tactics,</i> used to tell this story with glee, and being a + younger son of Sir John's was perhaps present on the occasion. +</p> +<p> + Note D, p. #.—Mr. Rutherfurd's Dream +</p> +<p> + The legend of Mrs. Grizel Oldbuck was partly taken from an extraordinary + story which happened about seventy years since, in the South of Scotland, + so peculiar in its circumstances that it merits being mentioned in this + place. Mr. Rutherfurd of Bowland, a gentleman of landed property in the + vale of Gala, was prosecuted for a very considerable sum, the accumulated + arrears of teind (or tithe) for which he was said to be indebted to a + noble family, the titulars (lay impropriators of the tithes). Mr. + Rutherfurd was strongly impressed with the belief that his father had, by + a form of process peculiar to the law of Scotland, purchased these lands + from the titular, and therefore that the present prosecution was + groundless. But, after an industrious search among his father's papers, + an investigation of the public records, and a careful inquiry among all + persons who had transacted law business for his father, no evidence could + be recovered to support his defence. The period was now near at hand when + he conceived the loss of his lawsuit to be inevitable, and he had formed + his determination to ride to Edinburgh next day, and make the best + bargain he could in the way of compromise. He went to bed with this + resolution and, with all the circumstances of the case floating upon his + mind, had a dream to the following purpose:—His father, who had been + many years dead, appeared to him, he thought, and asked him why he was + disturbed in his mind. In dreams men are not surprised at such + apparitions. Mr. Rutherfurd thought that he informed his father of the + cause of his distress, adding that the payment of a considerable sum of + money was the more unpleasant to him, because he had a strong + consciousness that it was not due, though he was unable to recover any + evidence in support of his belief, "You are right, my son," replied the + paternal shade; "I did acquire right to these teinds, for payment of + which you are now prosecuted. The papers relating to the transaction are + in the hands of Mr.—, a writer (or attorney), who is now retired from + professional business, and resides at Inveresk, near Edinburgh. He was a + person whom I employed on that occasion for a particular reason, but who + never on any other occasion transacted business on my account. It is very + possible," pursued the vision, "that Mr.—may have forgotten a matter + which is now of a very old date; but you may call it to his recollection + by this token, that when I came to pay his account, there was difficulty + in getting change for a Portugal piece of gold, and that we were forced + to drink out the balance at a tavern." +</p> +<p> + Mr. Rutherfurd awakened in the morning with all the words of the vision + imprinted on his mind, and thought it worth while to ride across the + country to Inveresk, instead of going straight to Edinburgh. When he came + there he waited on the gentleman mentioned in the dream, a very old man; + without saying anything of the vision, he inquired whether he remembered + having conducted such a matter for his deceased father. The old gentleman + could not at first bring the circumstance to his recollection, but on + mention of the Portugal piece of gold, the whole returned upon his + memory; he made an immediate search for the papers, and recovered them,— + so that Mr. Rutherfurd carried to Edinburgh the documents necessary to + gain the cause which he was on the verge of losing. +</p> +<p> + The author has often heard this story told by persons who had the best + access to know the facts, who were not likely themselves to be deceived, + and were certainly incapable of deception. He cannot therefore refuse to + give it credit, however extraordinary the circumstances may appear. The + circumstantial character of the information given in the dream, takes it + out of the general class of impressions of the kind which are occasioned + by the fortuitous coincidence of actual events with our sleeping + thoughts. On the other hand, few will suppose that the laws of nature + were suspended, and a special communication from the dead to the living + permitted, for the purpose of saving Mr. Rutherfurd a certain number of + hundred pounds. The author's theory is, that the dream was only the + recapitulation of information which Mr. Rutherfurd had really received + from his father while in life, but which at first he merely recalled as a + general impression that the claim was settled. It is not uncommon for + persons to recover, during sleep, the thread of ideas which they have + lost during their waking hours. +</p> +<p> + It may be added, that this remarkable circumstance was attended with bad + consequences to Mr. Rutherfurd; whose health and spirits were afterwards + impaired by the attention which he thought himself obliged to pay to the + visions of the night. +</p> +<p> + Note E, p. #.—Nick-sticks. +</p> +<p> + A sort of tally generally used by bakers of the olden time in settling + with their customers. Each family had its own nick-stick, and for each + loaf as delivered a notch was made on the stick. Accounts in Exchequer, + kept by the same kind of check, may have occasioned the Antiquary's + partiality. In Prior's time the English bakers had the same sort of + reckoning. +</p> +<pre> + Have you not seen a baker's maid, + Between two equal panniers sway'd? + Her tallies useless lie and idle, + If placed exactly in the middle. +</pre> +<p> + Note F, p. #.—Witchcraft. +</p> +<p> + A great deal of stuff to the same purpose with that placed in the mouth + of the German adept, may be found in Reginald Scott's <i>Discovery of + Witchcraft,</i> Third Edition, folio, London, 1665. The Appendix is + entitled, "An Excellent Discourse of the Nature and Substances of Devils + and Spirits, in two Books; the first by the aforesaid author (Reginald + Scott), the Second now added in this Third Edition as succedaneous to the + former, and conducing to the completing of the whole work." This Second + Book, though stated as succedaneous to the first, is, in fact, entirely + at variance with it; for the work of Reginald Scott is a compilation of + the absurd and superstitious ideas concerning witches so generally + entertained at the time, and the pretended conclusion is a serious + treatise on the various means of conjuring astral spirits. +</p> +<p> + [Scott's <i>Discovery of Witchcraft</i> was first published in the reign of + Queen Elizabeth, London, 1584.] +</p> +<p> + Note G, p. #.—Gynecocracy. +</p> +<p> + In the fishing villages on the Firths of Forth and Tay, as well as + elsewhere in Scotland, the government is gynecocracy, as described in the + text. In the course of the late war, and during the alarm of invasion, a + fleet of transports entered the Firth of Forth under the convoy of some + ships of war, which would reply to no signals. A general alarm was + excited, in consequence of which, all the fishers, who were enrolled as + sea-fencibles, got on board the gun-boats which they were to man as + occasion should require, and sailed to oppose the supposed enemy. The + foreigners proved to be Russians, with whom we were then at peace. The + county gentlemen of Mid-Lothian, pleased with the zeal displayed by the + sea-fencibles at a critical moment, passed a vote for presenting the + community of fishers with a silver punch-bowl, to be used on occasions of + festivity. But the fisher-women, on hearing what was intended, put in + their claim to have some separate share in the intended honorary reward. + The men, they said, were their husbands; it was they who would have been + sufferers if their husbands had been killed, and it was by their + permission and injunctions that they embarked on board the gun-boats for + the public service. They therefore claimed to share the reward in some + manner which should distinguish the female patriotism which they had + shown on the occasion. The gentlemen of the county willingly admitted the + claim; and without diminishing the value of their compliment to the men, + they made the females a present of a valuable broach, to fasten the plaid + of the queen of the fisher-women for the time. +</p> +<p> + It may be further remarked, that these Nereids are punctilious among + themselves, and observe different ranks according to the commodities they + deal in. One experienced dame was heard to characterise a younger damsel + as "a puir silly thing, who had no ambition, and would never," she + prophesied, "rise above the <i>mussel-line</i> of business." +</p> +<p> + Note H, p. #.—Battle of Harlaw. +</p> +<p> + The great battle of Harlaw, here and formerly referred to, might be said + to determine whether the Gaelic or the Saxon race should be predominant + in Scotland. Donald, Lord of the Isles, who had at that period the power + of an independent sovereign, laid claim to the Earldom of Ross during the + Regency of Robert, Duke of Albany. To enforce his supposed right, he + ravaged the north with a large army of Highlanders and Islesmen. He was + encountered at Harlaw, in the Garioch, by Alexander, Earl of Mar, at the + head of the northern nobility and gentry of Saxon and Norman descent. The + battle was bloody and indecisive; but the invader was obliged to retire + in consequence of the loss he sustained, and afterwards was compelled to + make submission to the Regent, and renounce his pretensions to Ross; so + that all the advantages of the field were gained by the Saxons. The + battle of Harlaw was fought 24th July 1411. +</p> +<p> + Note I, p. #.—Elspeth's death. +</p> +<p> + The concluding circumstance of Elspeth's death is taken from an incident + said to have happened at the funeral of John, Duke of Roxburghe. All who + were acquainted with that accomplished nobleman must remember that he was + not more remarkable for creating and possessing a most curious and + splendid library, than for his acquaintance with the literary treasures + it contained. In arranging his books, fetching and replacing the volumes + which he wanted, and carrying on all the necessary intercourse which a + man of letters holds with his library, it was the Duke's custom to + employ, not a secretary or librarian, but a livery servant, called + Archie, whom habit had made so perfectly acquainted with the library, + that he knew every book, as a shepherd does the individuals of his flock, + by what is called head-mark, and could bring his master whatever volume + he wanted, and afford all the mechanical aid the Duke required in his + literary researches. To secure the attendance of Archie, there was a bell + hung in his room, which was used on no occasion except to call him + individually to the Duke's study. +</p> +<p> + His Grace died in Saint James's Square, London, in the year 1804; the + body was to be conveyed to Scotland, to lie in state at his mansion of + Fleurs, and to be removed from thence to the family burial-place at + Bowden. +</p> +<p> + At this time, Archie, who had been long attacked by a liver-complaint, + was in the very last stage of that disease. Yet he prepared himself to + accompany the body of the master whom he had so long and so faithfully + waited upon. The medical persons assured him he could not survive the + journey. It signified nothing, he said, whether he died in England or + Scotland; he was resolved to assist in rendering the last honours to the + kind master from whom he had been inseparable for so many years, even if + he should expire in the attempt. The poor invalid was permitted to attend + the Duke's body to Scotland; but when they reached Fleurs he was totally + exhausted, and obliged to keep his bed, in a sort of stupor which + announced speedy dissolution. On the morning of the day fixed for + removing the dead body of the Duke to the place of burial, the private + bell by which he was wont to summon his attendant to his study was rung + violently. This might easily happen in the confusion of such a scene, + although the people of the neighbourhood prefer believing that the bell + sounded of its own accord. Ring, however, it did; and Archie, roused by + the well-known summons, rose up in his bed, and faltered, in broken + accents, "Yes, my Lord Duke—yes—I will wait on your Grace instantly;" + and with these words on his lips he is said to have fallen back and + expired. +</p> +<p> + Note J, p. #.—Alarm of invasion. +</p> +<p> + The story of the false alarm at Fairport, and the consequences, are taken + from a real incident. Those who witnessed the state of Britain, and of + Scotland in particular, from the period that succeeded the war which + commenced in 1803 to the battle of Trafalgar, must recollect those times + with feelings which we can hardly hope to make the rising generation + comprehend. Almost every individual was enrolled either in a military or + civil capacity, for the purpose of contributing to resist the + long-suspended threats of invasion, which were echoed from every quarter. + Beacons were erected along the coast, and all through the country, to + give the signal for every one to repair to the post where his peculiar + duty called him, and men of every description fit to serve held + themselves in readiness on the shortest summons. During this agitating + period, and on the evening of the 2d February 1804, the person who kept + watch on the commanding station of Home Castle, being deceived by some + accidental fire in the county of Northumberland, which he took for the + corresponding signal-light in that county with which his orders were to + communicate, lighted up his own beacon. The signal was immediately + repeated through all the valleys on the English Border. If the beacon at + Saint Abb's Head had been fired, the alarm would have run northward, and + roused all Scotland. But the watch at this important point judiciously + considered, that if there had been an actual or threatened descent on our + eastern sea-coast, the alarm would have come along the coast and not from + the interior of the country. +</p> +<p> + Through the Border counties the alarm spread with rapidity, and on no + occasion when that country was the scene of perpetual and unceasing war, + was the summons to arms more readily obeyed. In Berwickshire, + Roxburghshire, and Selkirkshire, the volunteers and militia got under + arms with a degree of rapidity and alacrity which, considering the + distance individuals lived from each other, had something in it very + surprising—they poured to the alarm-posts on the sea-coast in a state so + well armed and so completely appointed, with baggage, provisions, etc., + as was accounted by the best military judges to render them fit for + instant and effectual service. +</p> +<p> + There were some particulars in the general alarm which are curious and + interesting. The men of Liddesdale, the most remote point to the westward + which the alarm reached, were so much afraid of being late in the field, + that they put in requisition all the horses they could find, and when + they had thus made a forced march out of their own country, they turned + their borrowed steeds loose to find their way back through the hills, and + they all got back safe to their own stables. Another remarkable + circumstance was, the general cry of the inhabitants of the smaller towns + for arms, that they might go along with their companions. The + Selkirkshire Yeomanry made a remarkable march, for although some of the + individuals lived at twenty and thirty miles' distance from the place + where they mustered, they were nevertheless embodied and in order in so + short a period, that they were at Dalkeith, which was their alarm-post, + about one o'clock on the day succeeding the first signal, with men and + horses in good order, though the roads were in a bad state, and many of + the troopers must have ridden forty or fifty miles without drawing + bridle. Two members of the corps chanced to be absent from their homes, + and in Edinburgh on private business. The lately married wife of one of + these gentlemen, and the widowed mother of the other, sent the arms, + uniforms, and chargers of the two troopers, that they might join their + companions at Dalkeith. The author was very much struck by the answer + made to him by the last-mentioned lady, when he paid her some compliment + on the readiness which she showed in equipping her son with the means of + meeting danger, when she might have left him a fair excuse for remaining + absent. "Sir," she replied, with the spirit of a Roman matron, "none can + know better than you that my son is the only prop by which, since his + father's death, our family is supported. But I would rather see him dead + on that hearth, than hear that he had been a horse's length behind his + companions in the defence of his king and country." The author mentions + what was immediately under his own eye, and within his own knowledge; but + the spirit was universal, wherever the alarm reached, both in Scotland + and England. +</p> +<p> + The account of the ready patriotism displayed by the country on this + occasion, warmed the hearts of Scottishmen in every corner of the world. + It reached the ears of the well-known Dr. Leyden, whose enthusiastic love + of Scotland, and of his own district of Teviotdale, formed a + distinguished part of his character. The account which was read to him + when on a sick-bed, stated (very truly) that the different corps, on + arriving at their alarm-posts, announced themselves by their music + playing the tunes peculiar to their own districts, many of which have + been gathering-signals for centuries. It was particularly remembered, + that the Liddesdale men, before mentioned, entered Kelso playing the + lively tune— +</p> +<pre> + O wha dare meddle wi' me, + And wha dare meddle wi' me! + My name it is little Jock Elliot, + And wha dare meddle wi' me! +</pre> +<p> + The patient was so delighted with this display of ancient Border spirit, + that he sprung up in his bed, and began to sing the old song with such + vehemence of action and voice, that his attendants, ignorant of the cause + of excitation, concluded that the fever had taken possession of his + brain; and it was only the entry of another Borderer, Sir John Malcolm, + and the explanation which he was well qualified to give, that prevented + them from resorting to means of medical coercion. +</p> +<p> + The circumstances of this false alarm and its consequences may be now + held of too little importance even for a note upon a work of fiction; + but, at the period when it happened, it was hailed by the country as a + propitious omen, that the national force, to which much must naturally + have been trusted, had the spirit to look in the face the danger which + they had taken arms to repel; and every one was convinced, that on + whichever side God might bestow the victory, the invaders would meet with + the most determined opposition from the children of the soil. +</p> + + +<div style="height: 6em;"><br><br><br><br><br><br></div> + + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's The Antiquary, Volume 2, by Sir Walter Scott + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ANTIQUARY, VOLUME 2 *** + +***** This file should be named 7004-h.htm or 7004-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/7/0/0/7004/ + +Produced by David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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