 Volume 2, Chapter 20 of the Antiquary So, while the goose, of whom the fable told, incumbent, brooded o'er her eggs of gold, with hand outstretched, impatient to destroy, all in her secret nest, the cruel boy, whose grip rapacious changed her splendid dream, for wings vain fluttering, and for dying scream, the loves of the seaweeds. From the time that Sir Arthur Warder had become possessor of the treasure found in Mesticott'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 broke no neighbor 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 rivaled that of Windsor, and laying out the grounds on a suitable scale. Troops of livery menials were already, in fancy, marshaled in his halls and, for what may not unbounded wealth authorize its possessor to aspire to, the coronet of a marquee, perhaps of a duke, was glittering before his imagination. His daughter, to what matches might she not look forward, even in 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. In this mood, if anyone endeavored to bring Sir Arthur down to the regions of common life, his replies were in the vein of ancient pistol, a fight go for the world, and worldly in space I speak of Africa, and golden joys. The reader may conceive the amazement of Miss Wardour, when instead of undergoing an investigation concerning the addresses of Lovell, as she had expected from the long conference of her father with Mr. Oldbuck, upon the morning of the faded 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 Dostroswivel 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 he 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. 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 Apagón, that it was necessary to touch some things 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 doubster-swivel 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 graced 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 Noquinic the next morning, with such information as would not fail to relieve Sir Arthur from all his distresses. For, since I have consulted in such matters, I have never, said Mr. Hermann Doubster-swivel, approach so near de Arcanum, what you call de Great Mystery, de Panchester, de Polycresta. I do know as much of it as Palasso de Taranta, or Basilius, and either I will bring you in two or three days, de Number Three of Mr. Mistigote, or you shall call me one name myself and never look me into face again, no more tall. The adept departed with his 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, Pancresta, 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, perceived the stone on which he rests, gradually parting from the rest of the crag, and about to give way with him. The visions of hope decayed, and there increased a 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, for saw the hour approaching, which should deprive him of all the splendor 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 in action 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 and other respects. He was unused to contradiction, and if he had been hitherto, in general, good-humored and cheerful, it was probably because the course of his life had afforded no such frequent provocation as to render his irritability habitual. On the third morning after Duster Swivel's departure, the servant, as usual, laid on the breakfast table in 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-round. I perceived 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 am 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. 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. Sir Arthur, as if stung by a serpent, thrust his hand into his pocket and instantly drew out the money which he 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. Miss Wardour gave him her purse. He attempted to count the banknotes which he contained, but could not reckon them. After twice miscounting the sum, he threw the hole 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. The mistress and servant stood alike astonished at the agitation and vehemence of his manner. I am sure, ma'am, if I thought I was particularly wrong, I wouldn't hide made only answer when Sir Arthur challenged me. I have been long in a surface, and he has been a kind master, and you a kind mistress, and I would, like, ill you should hide. I would start for a hasty word. I am sure it was very wrong of me to speak about wages to his honour, when maybe he has something to vex him. I and I thought so leave in the family in this way. Go downstairs, Robert, said his mistress. Something has happened if my father. Go downstairs and let Alec answer the bell. When the man left the room, Sir Arthur re-entered, as if he had been in his departure. What's the meaning of this? he said hastily, as he observed the notes lined on the table. Is he not gone? Am I neither to be obeyed as a master or a father? He's gone to give up his charge to the housekeeper, Sir. I thought there was not such instant haste. There is haste, Miss Wardor, answered her father, interrupting her. What I do henceforth in the house of my forefathers must be done speedily, or never. He then sat 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 until life and spring upon him. You will be happy to hear, said Miss Wardor, willing to withdraw her father's mind from the gloomy reflections in which she appeared to be plunged. You will be happy to hear, Sir, that Lieutenant Taffel's gun-brig has got safe and to lay throats. I observed there had been apprehensions for his safety. I am glad we did not hear them until they were contradicted. And what is Taffel and his gun-brig to me? Sir, said Miss Wardor, 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. I say, he repeated, in a higher and still more impatient key, what do I care who was saved or lost? It's nothing to me, I suppose. I did not know you were busy, Sir Arthur, and thought, as Mr. Taffel is a brave man, and from our own country, you would be happy to hear, 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 opened first, they're all to the same tune. He broke the seal hastily, ran the letter over, and then threw it to his daughter. I could not have lighted more happily. This place is the cope-stone. Miss Wardor, 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. She began to read with a faltering voice. Dear Sir, he dears me to you, see, this impudent drudge of a writer's office, who, a twelve month sense, was not fit company for my second table. I suppose I shall be dear knight with him by and by. Dear Sir, resume, Miss Wardor, but interrupting herself. I see the contents are unpleasant, Sir, it will effect you by reading them aloud. If you will allow me to know my own pleasure, Miss Wardor, I entreat you to go on. I assume, if it were unnecessary, I shall not ask you to take the trouble. Having been of late, taken into co-partnery, continue, Miss Wardor, reading the letter, by Mr. Gilbert Greenhorn, son of your late correspondent and man of business, Guernigo Greenhorn Esquire, 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 Lamb Burton races, have the honour to reply to your said favours. 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. And he laugh at bitter laugh, which is perhaps the most fearful expression of mental misery. Trembling to proceed, and yet afraid to disobey, Miss Wardor continued to read, I am for myself in partner, sorry we cannot oblige you by looking out for the sums you mention, or applying for a suspension in the case of Goldie Bird's bond, which would be more inconsistent, as we have been employed to act as the said Goldie Bird's 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 six pence, one fourth of a penny sterling, which, with annual rents and expenses effering, 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 six pence, is also due, and settlement would be agreeable, but as we hold our 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 Mr. Goldie Bird's instructions to us are to proceed, peremptorier, and sena mora, 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, Gabrielle Grinderson, for Greenhorn and Grinderson. Ungrateful villain, said Miss Wardour. 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 effective composure, sorely belied by his quivering lip and rolling eye. But here's a postscript I did not notice. Come, finish the epistle. 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 and wind and limb, at a fair appreciation, in part payment, of your account. God confound him, said Sir Arthur. Losing all command of himself at this condescending proposal, his grandfather shot my father's horses, and this descendant of a scoundrel-y blacksmith, proposes to swindle me out of mine. But I will write him a proper answer. And he sat down and began to write with great vehemence, then stopped and read aloud. Mr. Gilbert Greenhorn, in answer to the letters of the 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, I 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 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. In prison, sir? said Miss Wardaur faintly. I am in prison, to be sure. Do you make any question about that? Why, Mr. Mutz's name's fine letter for self and partner seems to be thrown away on you, or else you have gotten four thousand so many hundred pounds, with a due proportion of shillings, pence, and half-pence, to pay that aforesaid demand, as he calls it. I, sir—oh, 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. Who, Reginald? I suppose he's gone with Mr. Gilbert Greenhorn, or some such respectable person, to the Lamb Burton 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. And kissing her cheek as she threw her arms around 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. Miss Warder took the advantage of this revulsion of feeling to endeavor to soothe her father's mind to composure. She reminded him that he had many friends. I had many once, said Sir Arthur, but if some I have exhausted their kindness with my frantic projects, others aren't able to assist me, others are unwilling. It is all over with me. I only hope Reginald will take example by my folly. Shall I not send him on bar and serve, said his daughter? 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. But he is shrewd and sensible, and was bred to business, and Arthur always loved this family. Yes, I believe he did. It is a fine past we are come to, when the affection of an old buck is of consequence to a Warder. But when manners 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. I know the worst, and may daily or hourly expect it. Go take your walk. I would willingly be alone for a little while. When Miss Warder left the apartment, her first occupation was to avail herself of the half-permission grantabire father by dispatching to Monk Barn's the messenger, who, as we have already seen, met the antiquary and his nephew on the sea-beach. Little wrecking, and indeed scarce knowing, where she was wandering, Chance directed her into the walk beneath the briary-bank, as it was called, a brook which in former days had supplied the castle-mote with water. Here descended through a narrow dell, up which Miss Warder's taste had directed a natural path, which was rendered neat and easy of a scent, 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 usual varieties of the thorn and briar. In this walk had passed that scene of explanation between Miss Warder and Lebel, which was overheard by old ediocal tree. With the hearts often by the distress which approached her family, Miss Warder now recalled every word and argument which Lebel had urged in support of his suit, and could not help confessing to himself, 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 excessive affection by the person who was the object of his attachment. Had he possessed an independence, however moderate, or ascertained to clear an 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, and asylum in an establishment of her own. These thoughts so favorable 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. With an error 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 have been wishing Muckel to meet with your ladyship, for you can I down a come to the house for duster swivel. I heard, indeed, some Miss Wardour, dropping an alms into the bonnet, I heard that you had done foolish, if not a very bad thing, Eddie, and I was sorry to hear it. What, my Bundy-lady, foolish! Hire the words, fools, and how should I do Eddie Ocotree be eye-wise? An eye for the evil. Let them, why deal with duster swivel, tell whether he got to Graemeier than his desserts. That may be true, Eddie, and yet, said Miss Wardour, you may have been very wrong. Weird, weird, we's no dispute that I know. It's about yourself, I'm going to speak. Do if you can, what's hanging over the house of Nockwinnick. Great distress, I fear, Eddie, answered Miss Wardour, but I'm surprised it is already so public. Public, sweet-clean the messenger, will be there the day without his tackle. I can it for I know his concurrence, I as they call them, that's warned, to him, and they'll be about their work be lie. Where they clip, their needs nigh came, they shear close enough. Are you sure this bad hour, Eddie, is so very nearer? Come, I know it will. It's in as I tell you, lady, but didn't we cast down? There's a heaven over your head there, as well as in that fearful night between the Buddy-Bergness and the Honkethed. Do you think he, what rebuked the waters, couldn't have protect you against the wrath of men, though they be armed with human authority? It is indeed all we have to trust you. You didn't can, you didn't can, when the night's darkest, the dawn's nearest. If I had a good horse, or could ride him when I had him, I reckon there would be help yet. I trust a day I got in a cast with the Royal Charlotte, but she's covered yonder, it's like at Kittleburg. There was a young gentleman on the box, and he behooved to drive, and Tom sang, that so had Hymer since, he behooved to let him, and the daft cannon couldn't take the turn at the corner of the brig. Hyde-hoid, he took the curves down, and he's warmed her as Hyde Wommel, a tomb bicker. It was a luck I hadn't gotten on the topper, so I came down between Hope and Despair to see if you would send me on. And Eddie, where would you go? said the young lady. To Tannenberg, my lady, which was the first stage from Fairport, but a good deal nearer to Noquineck, and that without a day. It sided on your own business. Our business, Eddie, alas, I'd give you all the credit for your good meaning, but there's nine boats about to my lady, for Gangamon, said the persevering blue gown. But what is it that you would do at Tannenberg, or how can you go in there and benefit my father's affairs? Indeed, my sweet lady, said the Gabberlanzi. You might just trust that big secret, Toy Daddy's Grape Howe, and ask night questions about it. Certainly, if, how would I worry my life for you, young knight, I can I nigh reason to play in ill, plisky tie in the day, or stress. Well, Eddie, follow me then, said Miss Warner. Now I'll try to get you sent to Tannenberg. Make haste in my bonny lady, make haste for the love of goodness. And he continued to exhort her to expedition until they reached the castle. End Chapter 20. Volume 2 Chapter 21 of the Antiquary The sleeper-box recording is in the public domain. The Antiquary by Sir Walter Scott. Chapter 21 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 or the deep wrinkles of repentant anguish. Old play. When Miss Wardour arrived in the court of the castle, she was surprised 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 was seen as it is called in the law of Scotland. Captain Mantire flew to her as, struck down with the melancholy conviction of her father's ruin, she paused upon the threshold of the gateway. 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. Alas, Captain Mantire, I fear it will be too late. No, answered Eddie, impatiently. Could I ever get to Tannenberg in the name of Heaven, Captain? Can try some way to get me on and you'll do this poor ruined family the best day's doing that has been done them since Red Hand's days. For sure as air and old sigh came true, Nockwinnick House and Land will be lost in one this day. Why, what good can you do, old man? said Hector. But Robert, the domestic with whom Sir Arthur had been so much displays in the morning, as if he had been watching for an opportunity to display his seal, stopped hastily forward and said to his mistress, If you please, ma'am, this old man, Uncle Tree, is very skeely and old-fierent about money things, as the diseases of cows and horses and sick-like, and I'm sure we just don't want to be as Tannenberg the day for nothing since he insists on this gate. And if your ladyship pleases, I'll drive him there in the tax-cart in an hour's time. I would feignly, of some use, I could bite my very tongue out when I think on this morning. I am obliged to, Robert, said Miss Wardour, and if you really think it has the least chance of being useful. In the name of God, said the old man, you'll cut the cart for me, and if I am no one some use, let's earn more. Gittelberg, I should come back again. Put home, ma'am, heishi, for time's precious sissy. 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 a personage, least likely to render effectual assistance in a case of pecuniary distress, yet there was among the common people in the city'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 tax cart, an officer touched him on the shoulder. My friend, you must let that beast alone. He's down in the schedule. Said Robert, am I not to take my master's horse to go my young lady's errand? You must remove nothing here, said the man of office, or you will be liable for all consequences. What the devil, sir, said Hector, who having followed to examine Ocultry more closely on the nature of his hopes and expectations, already began to bristle like one of the terriers of his own native mountains, but a decent pretext preventing his displeasure. Have you the impudence to prevent the young lady's servant from obeying her orders? 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 de-forcement, would certainly commence the consequences necessary for founding such a complaint. The legal officer confronted with him of the military, grasped with one doubtful hand the greasy pledging which was to enforce his authority, and with the other produced his short official baton, tipped with silver and having an immovable ring upon it. Captain Mentire, 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 de-forced. 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. I take all who stand here to witness, said the messenger, that I showed him my blazin' and explained my character, he that will to coupar, mawn to coupar. And he slid his enigmatic 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. On this Hector, better accustomed to the artillery of the field than to that of law, saw his mystical ceremony with great indifference, and with like unconcerned beheld the messenger sit down to ride out in execution of the forcement. 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. What the deuce is the matter here, he exclaimed, hastily adjusting his headgear. I've been following you in fear of finding your idle loggerhead knocked against one rock or other. And here I find you, parted with your Bucifalus and Coraline with Sweep Clean. A messenger Hector is a worse foe than a foca, whether it be the foca Barbada or the foca Vitulina of your late conflict. Damn the foca, sir, said Hector, whether it be the one or the other. I say damn 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 of fashion, like Miss Wardour. Rightly argued, Hector, said the antiquary, but the king, like other people, has now been chavierans. 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 Capita Quarto wears so quinto, this crime of deforestment is termed Dispectus Domini Regis. A contempt to wit of the king himself in whose name all legal diligence issues. Could you not have inferred from this information I took so much pains to give you today that those who interrupt officers who come to execute letters of caption are Tanquam Participace Criminus Rebellionis. Seeing that he who aides a rebel is himself Quotimodo an accessory to rebellion, but I'll bring you out of this scrape. He then spoke to the messenger who, upon his arrival, had laid aside all thoughts of making a good by-job out of the deforestment, and accepted in Mr. Oldbuck's assurances that the horse and tax cart should be safely returned in the course of two or three hours. 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 per Legum Julium in Mr. Sweepclean. Hark thee hither! And after a whisper of five minutes he gave him the 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 a caution and precision of one who feels himself overlooked by the inspector. 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. Happy to see you, Mr. Oldbuck, always happy to see my friends all, 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 demeanor. I am happy to see you. You are riding, I see. I hope in this confusion your horses are taking good care of. I was like to have my friends horses looked after. He gad, they will have on my care now, for you see they're like to leave me none of my own. Heh! Hmm! Mr. Oldbuck? This attempt at a jest was attended by a hysterical giggle which poor Sir Arthur intended should sound as an indifferent laugh. You know I never ride, Sir Arthur, said the antiquary. 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. Sir Arthur was about to ring the bell when Mr. Oldbuck said, my nephew came on your own grey horse, Sir Arthur. 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. Good Heaven! thought Oldbuck. How has this man altered from the formal stolidity of his usual manner? He grows wanton under adversity, said Paruntai Mila Figuori. He then proceeded aloud. Sir Arthur, we must necessarily speak a little on business. To be sure, said Sir Arthur, but it was so good that I should not know the horse I have ridden these five years. Ah! Sir Arthur, said the antiquary, don't let us waste time, which is precious. We shall have, I hope, many better seasons for jesting. De Separa in loco, as the maxim of Horus. I more than suspect this has been brought on by the villainy of Dostor Swivel. Don't mention his name, Sir, said Sir Arthur, and his manner entirely changed from a fluttered affectation 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 adult, such an infatuated idiot, such a beast endowed with thrice-abyss stupidity to be led and driven and spur galled by such a rascal, such ridiculous pretenses. Mr. Old Buck, I could tear myself when I think of it. I only meant to say, I answered the antiquary, that this fellow is like to me to his reward, and I cannot but think we shall frighten something out of him, that may be a service to you. He has certainly had some unlawful correspondence on the other side of the water. Has he? Has he? Has he indeed? Then damn the household goods, horses and so forth, I will go to prison, a happy man, Mr. Old Buck. I hope in heaven there is a reasonable chance of his being hanged. Why, pretty fair, said Old Buck, willing to encourage this diversion in hopes it might mitigate the feelings which seem to like to overset the poor man's understanding. Honest are 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. He took the papers, and as he read them, his countenance grew hopelessly dark and disconsolate. Miss Warder had by this time entered the apartment, and fixing her eyes on Mr. Old Buck, 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-draw. We are then irremediably ruined, Mr. Old Buck, said the young lady. Irremediably? I hope not, but the instant demand is very large and others will doubtless pour in. I never doubt that, Monk Barnes, 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 have 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 is time to die. But that damned, long-scented vulture that dog me so long, you have got him fast, I hope. Fast enough, said the antiquary. The gentleman wished to take the wings of the morning and bolt in the, what do you call it, the coach in for there. But he would have found twigs lying for him in 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 Kittlebrigg, and to prevent all possibility of escape I have sent your friend, Sweep Clean, to bring him back to Fairport in Nomina Regis or to act as his sick nurse at Kittlebrigg 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 held by the unfortunate gentleman. 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 characterised her disposition. The messengers returned, Mr. Oldbuck. Returned? What the devil? He has not let the fellow go. No, I understand that he had sent him to confinement and now he has returned to attend my father and says he can wait no longer. A loud wrangling was now heard on the staircase in which the voice of Hector predominated. You an officer, Sir, and these rag-a-muffins a party, a parcel of beggarly, tailor-fellows, tell yourselves off by nine and we shall know your effective strength. The grumbling voice of the man of law was then heard, indistinctly, hearing a reply, to which Hector retorted. Come, come, Sir, this won't do. Mark your party, as you call them, out of his house directly, or I'll send you and them to the right about presently. The devil take Hector, said the antiquary, hastening to the scene of action. His highly blood is up again and we shall have him finding a duel with the bailiff. Come, Mr. Sweepling, you must give us a little time. I wish to hurry, Sir Arthur. By no means, Sir, said the messenger, putting his hat off, which he had thrown on to testify defiance of Captain Mentire's threats. But your nephew, Sir, holds very uncivil language, and I have borne too much of it already, and 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. 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. Foolish boy, be quiet, said Old Buck, 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 Monk Barnes, which I hope she will make her residence until these unpleasant matters are settled. I go with my father, Mr. Old Buck, said Miss Wardour firmly. I have prepared his clothes on my own. I suppose we shall have the use of the carriage. 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 concurrence must attend on horseback. I will attend, too, said Hector. And he ran down to secure a horse for himself. We must go, then, said the antiquary. To jail, said the baronet, sighing involuntarily. And what of that? He resumed, in a tone effectively cheerful. It is only a house we can't get out of, after all. Suppose a fit of the gout and Nock Winnick would be the same. I, I, Monk Barnes, will call it a fit of the gout without the damned pain. But his eyes swelled with tears as he spoke, and his faltering accent marked how much this assumed gayity cost him. The antiquary wrung his hand and, like the Indian banyans who drive the real terms of an important bargain by signs, while they are apparently talking of in different 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. 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 Gamelin de Guardeauver, may be pardoned aside when he leaves the castle of his father's 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 lifeguards and committed upon a secretary-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. 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 has allowed his effort. I hope to God he has gotten into no new broil. It was an accursed chance that brought him here at all. 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. End Chapter 21 Volume 2 Chapter 22 of the Antiquary This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. The Antiquary by Sir Walter Scott. Chapter 22 Fortune, you say, flies from us. She but circles, like the fleet seabird round the Fowler Skiff. Lost in the mist one moment and the next brushing the white sail with her wider wing. As if to court theme. Experienced watches and has her on the wheel. Old play. The shout of triumph in Hector's warlike tones was not easily distinguished from that of battle. But as he rushed upstairs with a packet in his hand, exclaiming, Long life to an old soldier here comes Eddie with a whole budget of good news. It became obvious that his present cause of clamor was of an agreeable nature. He delivered the letter to Old Buck, shook Sir Arthur heartily by the hand and wished Miss Ward or Joy with all the frankness of Highland congratulation. The messenger who had a kind of instinctive terror of Captain Mentire drew towards his prisoner keeping an eye of caution on the soldier's motions. Don't suppose I shall trouble myself about you, dirty fellow. Said the soldier. There's a guinea for the fright I have given you and here comes an old forty-two man who is a fitter match for you than I am. The messenger wanted 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. What is the matter, Captain Mentire? Said Sir Arthur. Ask Old Eddie, said Hector, I only know all safe and well. What is all this, Eddie? Said Miss Ward or to the mendicant. Here, ladieship, Monask Mok Barnes for he's gotten the yipster-dery correspondence. God save the king! exclaimed the antiquary at the first glance of the contents of his packet and, surprised at once out of decorum, philosophy, and phlegm, he skimmed his cock-tad 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 and not Eddie stopped his hand exclaiming, Lord's sake he's gotten gight. Mine cox is no here to repair the damage. Every person now assailed the antiquary clamoring 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, my friends, fall with a linguist. 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 Ms. Wardour will have the goodness to step into the parlor. Mr. Sweep Clean. C'est-ce-de, Pallouspire or, in your own language, grant us a super sedera of diligence for five minutes. Hector, draw of your forces and make your bear-garden flourish elsewhere. And finally, be all of good cheer till my return, which will be in staunter. 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. Within the envelope was a letter addressed to Jonathan Oldbuck Esquire of Monk Barnes of the following purport. 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 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 formally as his agents, and by advice of a credible 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 open 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 own 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. In the State of the Post Office at Fairport being rather notorious, I must send this letter to Tannenberg. But the old man Ogletree, 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 friend, Reginald Gamelin Wardour. Edinburgh, 6th August, 1799 The antiquary hastily broke the seal of the enclosure, the contents of which gave him equal surprise and pleasure. When he had 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 pocketbook and wrote a short acknowledgement to be dispatched 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 parlor. Sweep clean, said he, as he entered, to the officer who stood respectfully at the door, you must sweep yourself clean out of knock-winnock castle with all your followers, tag, rag, and bob-tail. Seeest thou this paper-man? Assist on a bill of suspension, said the messenger, with a disappointed look. I thought it would be a queer thing if ultimate diligence was to be done against sick a gentleman as Sir Arthur. Well, sir, I used to go my ways with my party, and who used to pay my charges? They who employed thee, replied Old Buck, as thou full well dost know. But here comes another express. This is a day of news, I think. This was Mr. Mail-setter, 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 gel of Mastiff eyes the retreat of a repulsed beggar, evacuate Flanders. Sir Arthur's letter was from Mr. Greenhorn and a curiosity in its way. We give it with the worthy Baronet's comments. Sir, oh, I am dear Sir no longer. Folks are only dearer to my Sir's 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 Messer's Goldie-Birds 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. Grinderson's. Come, I see he can write for himself and his own partner, too. And, trusted as impossible, you can think me forgetful of or ungrateful for. The constant patronage was my family. His family cursed him for a puppy. Have a uniformly experienced from that of Noquinec. I am sorry to find from my interview I had to stay with Mr. Wardour that he is much irritated and I must own with a parent reason. But in order to remedy the crime he lies, the mistake of which he complains, pretty mistake, indeed, to clothe 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 am going to add that Mr. Grinderson is of opinion that if restored to your confidence he could point out circumstances connected with Messer's Goldie-Birds so, so, willing to play the rogue on either side. And that there is not the slightest hurry in settling the balance of your account with us, and that I am, for Mr. G, as well as myself, dear sir. Oh, I, he's written himself into an approach to familiarity. You're much obliged and most humble servant, Gilbert Greenhorn. Well said, Mr. Gilbert Greenhorn, said Montquarnes, 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 a client, out comes a gentleman-partner to fawn like a spaniel. When it is foul, forth bolts the operative brother to pin like a bulldog. 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. There are some writers very honest fellows, said Hector. I should like to hear anyone say that my cousin, Donald Mentire, Stratholden's seventh son, the other sixth sir in the army, is not as honest a fellow. No doubt, no doubt Hector, all the Mentires are so. I have it by patent, man. But I was going to say that in a profession where unbounded trust is necessarily proposed, there's nothing surprising that fools should neglect it in their idleness and tricksters abuse it in their navery. But it is the more to the honor of those, and I will vouch for many, who unite integrity with skill and attention and walk honorably upright where there are so many pitfalls and stumbling blocks for those 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. There, by staff, however, that I least to do with them, said Oakle Tree, who had stretched his neck into the parlor door for the general confusion of the family not having yet subsided, the domestics, like waves after the fall of a hurricane, had exactly regained their due limits, but were roaming wildly through the house. Ah, old true penny, 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 sent it 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 tax-card returned with the olive branch. You only tell ye to poor Robbie that dried me, poor fellow, said the beggar, he doubts he's in disgrace with my lady in Sir Arthur. Robert's repentant and bashful face was seen over the mendicant's shoulder. In disgrace with me, said Sir Arthur, how so? For the irritation to which he had worked himself, on occasion of the toast, had been long forgotten. Oh, 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. Nor anyone else, said the antiquary, for a soft answer turneth away wrath 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. God bless your ladyship, said poor Robert, and his honour, Sir Arthur, and the young lad, and the house of Nockwinnick in Elliot's branches, far and near. It's been a kind and good house to the poor this many hundred years. 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 red hand or hell and harness. For me I must say, Odie, that after him, queesemper we wait in armus. So let us eat and drink in peace and be joyful, Sir Knight. A table was quickly covered in the parlor, where the party sat joyously down to some refreshment. At the request of Old Buck, Eddie Oakletree was permitted to sit by the side-board in a great leathern chair, which was placed in some measure behind a screen. I see to this the more readily, said Sir Arthur, because I remember the father's days that chair was occupied by Elsie Goerle, who, for all I know, was the last privileged fool or jester maintained by any family distinction in Scotland. Oh yes, Sir Arthur, replied the beggar, who never hesitated an instant between his friend and his jest. Monio wise man sits in a four-seat, Han Manio fool in a wise man's, especially in family's eye distinction, fearing the effect of this speech, however worthy of Elsie Goerle or any other privileged jester, upon the nerves of her father, hasten to inquire whether ale and beef should not be distributed to the servants and people whom the news had assembled round the castle. Surely, my love, said her father, when was it ever otherwise in our families when a siege had been raised? I a siege laid by Saunders sweet-pleaning the bailiff and raised the oak-tree, the gabber-lunzi, par noblee fraughtrum, said Old Buck, 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. Were there anything better in this other, said Miss Wardour, it would be all too little to regale you after your friendly exertions. 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 St. Winnick's. Miss Wardour blushed, hector-coloured, and then grew pale. Sir Arthur answered, my daughter's much obliged you, Muck Barnes, 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. Me, me, me, Sir Arthur, no, not I, I will claim privilege of the Dwellow, and as being unable to encounter my fair enemy myself, I will appear by my champion. But 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 pleading? 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 has arrived there. I should like to see him. Major Hume said his uncle. Major Neville, sir, answered the young soldier. And who the devil is Major Neville? demanded the antiquary. Major Old Buck 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. Mentire need not leave Mug Barnes to see him, for my son writes that the major is to come with him to Nocwinnick, and I need not say how happy I shall be to make the young gentleman acquainted, unless indeed they are known to each other already. 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 that you will grow tired of him, interrupted Old Buck. I fear that is past praying for, but you have forgotten that the ecstatic 12th of August approaches, and that you are engaged to meet one of Lord Glen Allen's gamekeepers, God knows where, to persecute the peaceful, feathered creation. True, true uncle, I had forgot that, exclaimed the volatile Hector, but you said something just now that put everything out of my head. I did like your honours, said Old Eddie, thrusting his white head from behind the screen, where he had been plentifully regalling himself with ale and cold meat. I did like your honours, I can tell you something that will keep the captain with I must as well as the poutine. Here you and I, the French, are coming. The French, you blockhead, answered Old Buck, Bah! I have not had time, said Sir Arthur Warder, 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. An arm, said Eddie, troath there's alarm, for the provost scarred the beacon light on, the hall could hit, be sorted up. That sort of been sorted half a year's sign, in an uncoup hurry, and the council I named, Nylecimand, the Lord Caxon himself, to watch the light. Some say it was at all compliment to Lieutenant Tafel, for it's nice to certain that he'll marry Jenny Caxon. Some say it's to please your honour among barns that wear wigs, and some say there's some odd story with a very wig the nine of the Baileys got him near paid for. Anyway, there he is, sitting cocked up like a skirt upon the top of the craig, to scurl when foul weather comes. On my honour, a pretty warder, said Monk Barnes, and what's my wig to do all the while? I asked Caxon that very question, answered Ocaltree, and he said he could look in Ilke Mornin, and guy a touch before a guy do his bed, for there's another man to watch in the daytime, and Caxon says who frizz your honour's wig as we're sleepin' has walkin'. 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 Nockwinnock with the warmest expressions of mutual regard, and an agreement to meet again as soon as possible. End Chapter 22 Volume 2 Chapter 23 of the antiquary this leverboxed recording is in the public domain. The antiquary by Sir Walter Scott Chapter 23 Nay, if she loved me not I care not for her shall I look pale because they made in 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 Hector said his uncle to Captain Mentire in the course of their walk homeward I'm sometimes inclined to suspect that in one respect you are a fool. If you only think me so in one respect, sir, I'm sure you do me more grace than I expected or deserve. I mean in one particular par excellence answer the antiquary I have sometimes thought that you've cast your eyes upon Miss Wardour well sir said Mentire with much composure well sir echoed his uncle do just take the fellow he answers me as if it were the most reasonable thing in the world that he a captain the army and nothing at all besides should marry the daughter of a baronet I presume to think sir said the young Highlander there would be no degradation of Miss Wardour's part in point of family oh heaven forbid we should come on that topic no no equal both both on the table end of gentility and qualified to look down on every roturier in Scotland an important fortune we are pretty even since neither of us have got any continued Hector may be an error but I cannot plead guilty to presumption but here lies the error then if you call it so replied his uncle she won't have you Hector indeed sir it is very sure Hector and to make a 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 I was unable to account for 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 Ford is too well garrisoned for you to storm it I have no occasion to beat any retreat uncle said Hector holding himself very upright and marching with a sort of dog defended salinity no man needs to retreat that has never advanced there are women in Scotland besides Miss Wardour of his good family 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 show we figure now with two cross feathers of her noddle one green one blue who would wear a riding habit of the regimental complexion drive a gig one day and the next to review the regiment on the gray trotting pony which dragged that vehicle Hock Arrod in Wotus these are the qualities that would subdue you especially if she had a taste for natural history and left a specimen of a foca it's a little hard sir said Hector I must have that cursed seal thrown in my face on all occasions but I care a little about it and I shall not break my heart for Miss Wardour she was free to choose for herself and I was sure all happiness 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 sir answered the young man you would not have me desperately in love with a woman that does not care about me well now for you said the antiquary more seriously there is doubtless much sense in what you say yet I would have given a great deal some 20 or 25 year sense to have been able to think as you do anybody I suppose may think as they please on such subjects said Hector not according to the old school said old buck but as I said before the modern seems in this case the most prudential though I think scarce to the most interesting but tell me your ideas now on this prevailing subject of an invasion the cry is still they come 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 Monk Barnes 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 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 Perucier was a faithful reporter and which habit had made as necessary to the antiquary as his occasional pinch of snuff although we held or affected to hold both to be of the same intrinsic value the feeling of acuity peculiar to such a deprivation was alleviated by the appearance of old ochre tree sauntering beside the clip to you and holly hedges with the air of a person quiet 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 nightgown and instantly received and returned his greeting they are coming now in good earnest Monk Barnes I just came from fire part to bring you the news and then I'll step away back again the searchers just come into the bay and they say she's been chased by a French fleet the search, said old buck reflecting a moment oh hi hi Captain Tafel's gun-brig the search what? any relation to search number two, said old buck catching at the light which the name of the vessel seemed to throw on the mysterious chest of treasure the mendicant, like a man stunted in a frolic put his bonnet before his face yet could not help laughing heartily hedges and new Monk Barnes for going odds and evens meet we thought you would read that and that together I'm clean catch now I say it all, said old buck as plain as a legend on a metal of high preservation the box in which the bullion was found belonged to the gun-bring and the treasure to my phoenix Eddie nodded ascent and was buried there that Sir Arthur might receive relief in his difficulties by me, said Eddie and twice the brigsmen but they didn't account its contents and thought it some bit smuggling concern of the captains I watched day and night till I saw it in the right hand and then when that German devil was glaring at the lid of the case they liked a mutton wheel that licked where the yaw lay I think some Scottish deal put it into my hand to play him yaw nearer cantrip now you see, if I had said more or less to be the little John I would move till I come out with I this story and mixed with Mr. Lovell I bin tell it brought to light so I thought it would stand to anything rather than that I must say he has chosen as confident well, said old buck though somewhat strangely how you say this for myself Monk Barnes answered the mendicant that I am the fittest man in the hired country to trust with Siller for I neither want it nor wish for it nor could you set if I had it but the lad had no muck of choice in the matter for I thought he was leaving the country forever I trust he's mistaken in that thought and the night was set in when we learned by a strange chance throughout their sigh distress and Lovell was obliged to be on board as the day dawned five nights afterwards the brook stood in the bay and I met the boat by appointment and we buried the treasure where you find it this was a very romantic foolish exploit said old buck why not trust me or any other friend the blood of your sister's son replied Eddie was on his hands and him maybe dead outright would time Eddie to take counsel or how could he ask it of you Eddie you are right but what if Dousedress Lovell had come before you there's sort of fears coming there without Sir Arthur he had gotten a sigh lift the night before and never intended to look near the place again unless he had been brought there sting and ding he came to where the first pose was of his own hiding and how could he expect a second he just havert on about it then how said old buck should Sir Arthur have come there unless the German had brought him umph answered Eddie dryly I had a story about Mr. Kutt would have brought him forty miles or you either besides it was to be thought he would be for visit in the place he had found the first Scytherin he can nigh the secret of that job in short the Scyther being in this shape Sir Arthur in utter difficulties the level determined he should never can the hand that helped him for that was what he insisted most upon we couldn't think of a better thing to the gear in his gate though we simmered it and wintered it Air Ceylang and if by only queer mistance Dousedress Lovell had got his clothes on it I was instantly too high informed you or the sheriff or the Huy story well notwithstanding all these wise precautions the contrivance exceeded better than such a clumsy one deserved Eddie but how the deuce came Lovell by such a mass of silver ingots that's just what I can I tell you but they were put on board with his things at Fairport it's like and we stowed them into either the ammunition boxes if the brig by for consignment and convenience of carriage Lord, said Old Buck his recollection occurring to the earlier part of his acquaintance with Lovell and this young fellow who is 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 Lovell I suppose I just guide a bit scrape of a pen frame to say there would, as yesterday fell, be a packet at Tannenberg with letters of great consequence to the Nocunic folk for they jealous the opening of our letters at Fairport and that size is true I hear Mrs. Mail-setters to lose her office for looking after other folk's business and neglect her nirine and what you expect now for being the advisor and messenger and guard and confidential person in all these matters they'll have it to I expect expecting that high the gentiles will come to the Garber-Lenzies burial and maybe you'll carry the head yourself as you did for steamy muckle-backets what trouble was it to me I was ganging about at any rate oh, but I was blithe when I got out of prison though for I thought what if that weary letter should come when I'm closed up here like an oyster and I should gang wrong for wanton and whilst I thought I might make a clean breast and tell Yahya about it but then I couldn't we'll do that without contravening Mr. Lovell's positive orders and I reckon he had to see somebody at Edinburgh of where he could do what he was to do for Sir Arthur and his family well, and to your public news Eddie so they are still coming are they to what they say Siser 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 of defence I saw the Baileys last cleaning his belts in white beaks I guide her a hand for you won't think she was no clever at it and I say I get all the news for my pains and what thank you as an old soldier truth I cannot and they come so money as they speak of they'll be odds against us but there's many old childs among thy volunteers and how many say muckl about them that's no weir and no variable because I'm something that gate myself but we's do our best what? so your martial spirit is rising again Eddie even in our ashes glow their wanted fires I would not thought you Eddie had so much to fight for me no muckl to fight for Sir isn't there a country to fight for and the burned sides that I gang Dondren beside and the hearse say the good wives that guy me my bitter bread and the bits of weens that come tumbling to play with me when I come about to Lawnward town Dale he continued grasping his pike staff with great emphasis and I had as good a pith as I had good weir and a good cause I should give some of them a day's campan bravo bravo Eddie the country's a little ultimate danger when the beggars to fight for his dish as the lair for his land their further conversation reverted to the particulars of the night passed by the mendicant and level in the ruins of St. Ruth by the details of which the antiquary was highly amused I would have given a guinea he said to have seen the scoundrelty German under the agonies of those terrors which is part of his own quackery to inspire and others and trembling alternately for the fury of his patron and the apparition of some hobgoblin truth said the beggar there was time for him to be cowed for you would have thought the very spirit of Helen Harness had taken possession over the body of Sir Arthur but what will come of the Landlober 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 under 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 naïve in his own country Hanoi the bunny engines had views had the coves and shush down at Glenn Withershen's yonder what's to come of him said Eddie help the men before they are dispersed will make a bonfire of their gim cracks as any army destroy their artillery when forced to raise a siege and as for the holes Eddie I abandoned them as rat traps for the benefit of the next wise men who may choose to drop the substance to snatch at a shadow hey sirs go I decide to burn the engines that's a great waste I'd better try to get back part of your hundred pounds with a sale of the materials he continued with an air of affected condolence 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 Eddie and remember my counsel never speak to me about a mine nor to my nephew Hector about a foca that is a seal as you call it I want me getting in 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 honor says nor to speak to you about a seal nor to the captain about the hundred pounds that you guide to duster confound thee I desire thee not to mention that to me dear me said Eddie with effected surprise weird I thought there was nothing but what your honor could I stood in in the way of agreeable conversation unless it was about the prior torrent yonder or the bottle that the pacman sell it to ye for an old coin Shaw Shaw said the antiquary turning from him hastily and retreating into the house the mendicant looked after him a moment and with a chuckling laugh such as that which a magpie or parrot 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 a high abut to crack with the monk barns end chapter 23