"He may be, mother! Anyhow I trust I shall do nothing he would not like!"
"He would sooner see son of his marry the daughter of a cobbler than of a brewer!"
"So would I, mother!" said Alister.
"I too," said Ian, "would much prefer that my sister-in-law's father were not a brewer."
"I suppose you are splitting some hair, Ian, but I don't see it," remarked his mother, who had begun to gather a little hope. "You will be back by supper-time, Alister, I suppose?"
"Certainly, mother. We are only going to the village."
The brothers went.
"I knew everything you were thinking," said Ian.
"Of course you did!" answered Alister.
"But I am very sorry!"