"Billy," said Miss Christie, "how is it that you have such a fine accent?"
"I don't know," said Billy modestly.
"It's because," Thomas hastened to explain—"it's because we had an English nurse when Billy was little. I've a Glasgow accent myself," he added.
"My accent's Peebleshire," said Buff, forgetting his wrongs in the interest of the conversation.
"Mamma says that's worse," said Thomas gloomily.
Mr. Seton chuckled. "You're a funny laddie, Thomas," he said.
"Kirsty," said Elizabeth, "this is no place for serious conversation; I haven't had a word with you. Oh! Father, how is Mrs. Morrison?"
"Very far through."
"Ah! Poor body. Is there nothing we can do for her?"
"No, my dear, I think not. She never liked taking help and now she is past the need of it. I'm thankful for her sake her race is nearly run."