Page:Lindigo.djvu/192

192 eyes were terrible proofs of Charlie's remarks, that the Lochlinn estate was now the property of his rival Charlie Stuart, who added, "I am sorry to be the bearer of your downfall, my Lord, and also having to present it on the present occasion, for it never was my disposition to triumph over the misfortunes of a rival; however, you must blame yourself, and I hope the lesson will be of benefit to you hereafter. You are young, and by at once seeking and following the paths or truth and rectitude, may yet regain that position which you have so foolishly sacrificed."

The company's attention was now drawn to some fresh commotion on the stairs, which sounded like forcible pushing and dragging, accompanied by the following expressions:—"Come up here my beauty. I'll soon show you manners for poaching on a nobleman's estate. His Lordship and Mr. McKay will put you through your facings, my fine gentleman."

The cause of all this bouncing and scuffling turned out to be our old acquaintance, John Brown, Lord Lundy's valet, who had met with his former rival and adversary, Donald, shooting. Being this day at the Post-office, and having to call at Mr. McKay's as he returned to leave the letters, he met with Donald. Not recognising him, Brown demanded his license for shooting on the estate. Munro, not wishing to make himself known as yet, admitted that he had no license, when, after giving other unsatisfactory answers, Brown marched him off to the factor's house, where he would be dealt with by his Lordship and Mr. McKay. In order to make himself more officious, he used several unnecessary epithets, and pushing Donald into the presence of his judges, laid the charge in the following words:—"My Lord, I have just popped on this here man, shooting, as if he had full liberty from you to do so. I hope you will make an example of him." Lord Lundy, whose mind was occupied with his own misfortunes, only asked Brown if he had any letters for him,—on receiving which, his Lordship was more confirmed in his downfall, and immediately took his departure.