Page:Laird of Cool's ghost (NLS104186838).pdf/12

12 oftener if thy please. Thus then I answer your question, that you was so much concerned about: for my information was from no less than three persons, viz. Aikman, who attends Thurston's family, James Corbet, who waits upon Mr Paton: for at that time he was then looking after Mrs. Sarah Paton, who was at your house; and an original emissary appointed to wait upon yours.

At this I was much surprised, and after a little thinking, I asked him: And is there really, Cool, an emissary from hell, in whatever sense you take it, that attends my family?

Cool.—You may depend upon it.

Ogil.— And what do you think is his business?

Cool.— To divert you from your duty, and cause you to do as many ill things as he can: for much depends on having the minister on their side.

Upon this I was struck with a sort of terror, which I cannot account for. In the mean time he said several things I did not understand. But after coming to my former presence of mind, said,

Ogil.— But Cool, tell me in earnest, if there be a devil that attends my family, though invisible?

Cool.—Just as sure as you are breathing, but be not so much dejected upon this information, for I tell you likewise that there is a good angel who attends you, who is stronger than the other.

Ogil.—Are you sure of that Cool?

Cool.—Yes, there is one riding on your right hand, who might as well have been elsewhere, for I meant you no harm.

Ogil.— And how long has he been with me?

Cool.— Only since we passed Brand's-lee, but now he is gone.

Ogil.— We are just upon Elenscleugh, and I desire to part with you, though perhaps I have gained