"He'd never think of such a thing! Ihan would not let him; that is, if he had got any way on," said Mrs. Shiels.
"There's dancing the night at the Lion," reiterated Donald.
"Why, the boy would never think of staying for that!" exclaimed Mrs. Shiels; indignant at the mere notion of such a disorderly proceeding.
"To be sure, he wouldn't," said Annie; "Donald knows that well enough;" and her lip curled as she spoke!
Annie was evidently disturbed at Rob's prolonged absence, and angry with Donald's insidious attempts to put an ill construction on it. But still Rob did not come.
Annie went on preparing the supper, which consisted of porridge; and when she had poured it into the bowls, she made two messes for the dogs.
"Where's Coullie?" she said looking round.
"Arn't he here?" inquired Donald.
"No.—Don't you see he's not?"
"Well, I thought he came in with me," said Donald; and going to the door he began whistling the familiar whistle that calls home the dogs. Jock leaving his bowl of porridge, that Annie had set down, went to the door too. Presently they both returned; Donald sat down to his supper, saying, he supposed the dog would come presently; and Jock applied himself to his.