"Oddly enough, through the man that pulled my nose. I had a chance afterwards of doing him a good turn, which he was most generous in acknowledging; and as he belonged to the court, I had the offer of a lieutenant's commission. The Scotch are in favour."
A deep cloud had settled on the face of the young man. The lady looked at him for a moment with keenest mother-eyes, suppressed a deep sigh, and betook herself again to her work.
Ere she thought how he might take it, another question broke from her lips.
"What sort of church had you to go to in St. Petersburg, Ian?" she said.
Ian was silent a moment, thinking how to be true, and not hurt her more than could not be helped.
"There are a thousand places of worship there, mother," he returned, with a curious smile.
"Any presbyterian place?" she asked.
"I believe so," he replied.
"Ian, you haven't given up praying?"
"If ever I prayed, mother, I certainly have not given it up."