The reward of parents who have tried to be good, may be to learn, with a joyous humility from their children. Mrs. Macruadh was capable of learning more, and was now going to have a lesson.
When Alister pushed back his chair and rose, she could refrain no longer. She could not let him go in silence. She must understand something of what was passing in his mind!
"What do you think of THAT, Alister?" she said.
He turned to her with a faint smile, and answered,
"I am glad to know it, mother."
"That is good. I was afraid it would hurt you!"
"Seeing the thing is so, I am glad to be made aware of it. The information itself you cannot expect me to be pleased with!"
"No, indeed, my son! I am very sorry for you. After being so taken with the young woman,—"
Alister looked straight in his mother's face.
"You do not imagine, mother," he said, "it will make any difference as to Mercy?"