And he dashed into his bedroom to find a canvas.

"Hech!" reflected Christie. "Thir Ennglish hae flattering tongues, as
sure as Dethe; 'The Snawdrap o' the Norrth!'"


CHAPTER VIII.


GATTY'S back was hardly turned when a visitor arrived, and inquired, "Is
Mr. Gatty at home?"

"What's your will wi' him?" was the Scottish reply.

"Will you give him this?"

" What est?"

"Are you fond of asking questions?" inquired the man.

"Ay! and fules canna answer them," retorted Christie.

The little document which the man, in retiring, left with Christie
Johnstone purported to come from one Victoria, who seemed, at first
sight, disposed to show Charles Gatty civilities. "Victoria--to Charles
Gatty, greeting! (salutem)." Christie was much struck with this instance
of royal affability; she read no further, but began to think, "Victoree!
that's the queen hersel. A letter fra the queen to a painter lad! Picters
will rise i' the mairket--it will be an order to paint the bairns. I hae