‘Lord Bladderskate’s lad is come to ask how Mr. Alan is, as he left; the court’—
‘Aye, aye, aye,’ answered Saunders, bitterly; ‘he has e’en made a moonlight flitting, like my lord’s ain nevoy.’
‘Shall I say sae, sir?’ said James, who, as an old soldier, was literal in all things touching the service.
‘The devil! no, no!—Bid the lad sit down and taste our ale. I will write his lordship an answer.’
Once more the gilt paper was resumed, and once more the door was opened by James.
‘Lord ——— sends his servitor to ask after Mr. Alan.’
‘Oh, the deevil take their civility!’ said poor Saunders, set him down to drink too—I will write to his lordship.’
‘The lads will bide your pleasure, sir, as lang as I keep the bicker fou; but this ringing is like to wear out the bell, I think; there are they at it again.’
He answered the fresh summons accordingly, and came back to inform Mr. Fairford that the Dean of Faculty was below, inquiring for Mr. Alan. ‘Will I set him down to drink, too?’ said James.
‘Will you be an idiot, sir?’ said Mr. Fairford. ‘Show Mr. Dean into the parlour.’