'It seems a pity,' he was saying, 'if the fish are taking, not to have two boats at the work. And there's that big rod o' yours, sir—you could use that for the trolling; and let the young lady have one o' your grilse rods. Then there's mine—she can have that and welcome——'
'Yes, but the gillies——'
'Oh, I'll take a turn myself; I'm no so busy the now. And I can get one o' the lads to lend a hand.'
'Do you hear this, Carry?' her father said.
'What, pappa?'
'Ronald wants you to start off salmon-fishing to-morrow, in a boat all to yourself—
'Alone?'
'Why, no! He says he will go with you, and one of the lads; and you will have all the best advice and experience—I don't think it's fair, myself—but it's very good-natured anyhow——'
'And do you think there's a chance of my catching a salmon?' she said eagerly, and she turned her eloquent black eyes, all lit up with pleasure, full upon him.
'Oh yes, indeed,' said he, looking down, 'and many and many a one, I am sure, if we could only get a little wet weather.'