discriminations. Your uncle thought it was better for me to come
than to write a letter.'

'Is onything wrang wi' ma uncle?' Macgregor asked anxiously.

'Barring an invidious bunion, he is in his usual health. But we
are going to Aberdeen to-morrow, for a fortnight, and we have
invited your intended to come with us. She----'

'Christina! But she canna gang awa' to Aberdeen when----' He
stopped short, at a loss. He had an appointment with Christina for
the following evening. Surely----

'I arranged with Miss Tod this morning. Christina will be writing
to you, I presume.'

'She--she's gaun wi' ye?'

'Certainly--D.V., of course.'

'For a--a fortnicht?'

'The change will be good for her. You must not be selfish. Your
uncle was afraid you might be put out: that is why I came to
explain. But apart from the beneficial change, Christina, as I
observed to your uncle, ought to see the world while she is young.'

Macgregor answered nothing. Possibly he did not catch her latter
remarks. Christina going away for a fortnight, and he might be
ordered abroad at any moment!