doors, with the harmless things of earth, she was wise enough--and
good company. The old of this countryside remember us, going here and
there.... I used to think, 'If I had been living then, I would not
have let those things happen!' And I dreamed of taking coin, and of
dropping the same coin into the hands that gave.... And so, the other
having served your turn, Touris, you will change back to the true
Kirk?"

Mr. Touris handled his snuff-box, considered the chasing upon the
gold lid. "Those were sore happenings, Glenfernie, but they're past! I
make no wonder that, being you, you feel as you do. But the world's in
a mood, if I may say it, not to take so hardly religious differences.
I trust that I am as religious as another--but my family was always
moderate there. In matters political the world's as hot as ever--but
there, too, it is my instinct to ca' canny. But if you talk of
trade"--he tapped his snuff-box--"I will match you, Glenfernie! If
there's wrong, pay it back! Hold to your principles! But do it
cannily. Smile when there's smart, and get your own again by being
supple. In the end you'll demand--and get--a higher interest. Prosper
at your enemy's cost, and take repayment for your hurt sugared and
spiced!"

"I'll not do it so!" said Glenfernie. "But I would take my stand at
the crag's edge and cry to Grierson of Lagg, 'You or I go down!'"

Mr. Touris brushed the snuff from his ruffles. "It's a great century!
We're growing enlightened."

With a movement of her fingers Mrs. Jardine helped to roll from her
lap a ball of rosy wool. "Mr. Jardine, will you give me that? Had you