“An’ what then, John?”

“Why, then, seeing I woo the wondrous niece, why should not you woo the more wonderful aunt?”

Sir Hector very nearly dropped his cherished pipe.

“Me, is it?” he exclaimed—“me woo a wumman? Me—wi’ ane leg i’ the ... Losh, Johnnie man, are ye rin clean daft, whateffer?”

“She is a woman of refinement, Hector, and altogether charming, and as a wife——”

“Whisht, man, ye fair mak’ me blush!”

“And you, Hector, are none so ill-looking—‘when fresh shaved,’ and your wig combed and ironed. Thou’rt vigorous and strong as a bull——”

“Will ye no’ hae done, John!”

“And she a delightful creature with the very charmingest natural complexion and adorable eyes. You must ha’ noticed ’em when peeping at her.”

“Peeping!” gasped Sir Hector.