“I am the manager of his Edinburgh business, so I cannot discuss his personality.”
“That’s right, laddie! Folks seldom see any good thing in their employer; and it is quite fair for them to be just as blind to any bad thing in him––but I’ll tell you frankly that your employer has not a first rate reputation here.”
“All right, Mistress Brodie! His reputation is not in my charge––only his money. I do not think the quality of his reputation can hurt mine.”
“Your father’s reputation will stand bail for yours. Well now, run away and get business off your mind, and be back here for one o’clock dinner. I will not wait a minute after the clock chaps one. This afternoon I am going to my brother’s house, and I sent him a message which asks for permission to bring you with me.”
“Thanks!” but he said the word in an unthankful tone, and then he looked into Mistress Brodie’s face, and she laughed and imitated his expression, as she assured him “she had no girl with matrimonial intentions in view.”
“You see, Mistress,” he said, “I do not intend to remain longer than a week. Why should I run into danger? I am ready to take heartaches. Can you tell me how best to find McLeod’s warehouse?”
“Speir at any man you meet, and any man will show you the place. I, myself, am not carin’ to send folk an ill road.”
So Ian Macrae went into the town and easily found his friend and employer. Then their business was easily settled and it appeared to be every way gratifying to both men.
“You have taken a business I hate off my hands, Ian,” said McLeod, “and I am grateful to you. 54 Where shall we go today? What would you like to do with yourself?”