"They are over, and he shall die conform to the Act."

"And how went the proceedings?"

"Deil kens; I sleepit the haill time."

"Driveller!" cried Clermistonlee in a towering passion; "'tis like thee; your head is as empty as my purse——"

"Hee, hee, ye seem a bonnie temper to-night. But what detained you frae the board, when ye knew you were principal witness?"

"The sudden indisposition of Lady Clermistonlee made it impossible for me to leave Bruntisfield—but I have this moment galloped in from The Place."

"You are a kind and considerate gudeman," said Mersington drily.

"And what did this fellow confess?"

"His abhorrence of you——"

"Ha! ha!"