'Of course we shall,' joined in the others.
'It's very kind of you, I'm sure,' said Elspeth, wiping her eyes; 'we must just hope for the best. And now, young ladies and gentlemen, you must have your tea and not think too much about it; and Miss Marjorie, I'm thinking I must just make you a few scones!'
Little appetite was left to the young folks for the meal; and the half-hearted clatter of knives and plates soon died away.
'We'll stand up for old Neil, no matter what happens,' was the upshot of their deliberations; and Elspeth, coming in and out, dried her tears furtively with the corner of her apron.
Later in the evening a dog-cart drove up; and Dr. and Mrs. MacGregor alighted.
Marjorie ran down into the hall, while the others all clustered about the banisters and looked down.
'Mother,' said Marjorie, with a set face, 'we know about Neil; tell us how things have gone for him to-day.'
'The case is against him, so far,' replied Mrs. MacGregor.
A groan burst from upstairs, and Marjorie set her lips tightly.
'What will be done to him?' inquired Tricksy piteously.