Page:Scott - Tales of my Landlord - 3rd series, vol. 2 - 1819.djvu/262

252 As he raised his eyes, he beheld the Marquis of A, who, having arrived at the Tod's-hole, had walked forth to look for his kinsman.

After mutual greetings, he made some apology to the Master for not coming forward on the preceding evening. "It was his wish," he said, "to have done so, but he had come to the knowledge of some matters which induced him to delay his purpose. I find," he said, "there has been a love affair here, kinsman; and though I might blame you for not having communicated with me, as being in some degree the chief of your family"

"With your lordship's permission," said Ravenswood, "I am deeply grateful for the interest you are pleased to take in me—but I am the chief and head of my family."

"I know it—I know it," said the Marquis; "in a strict heraldic and genealogical sense, you certainly are so—what I