‘And pray now, Mr. Walkinshaw, may I ask what do you think you do best?’
‘Man! an ye could see how I can sup curds and ream—there’s no ane in a’ the house can ding me.’
The sincerity and exultation with which this was expressed convulsed the Court, and threw the advocate completely on his beam-ends. However, he soon righted, and proceeded,—
‘I don’t doubt your ability in that way, Mr. Walkinshaw; and I dare say you can play a capital knife and fork.’
‘I’m better at the spoon,’ replied Walter laughing.
‘Well, I must confess you are a devilish clever fellow.’
‘Mair sae, I’m thinking, than ye thought, sir.—But noo, since,’ continued Walter, ‘ye hae speer’t so many questions at me, will ye answer one yoursel?’
‘Oh, I can have no possible objection to do that, Mr. Walkinshaw.’
‘Then,’ said Walter, ‘how muckle are ye to get frae my brother for this job?’
Again the Court was convulsed, and the questioner again disconcerted.