Page:Scott - Tales of my Landlord - 3rd series - 1819.djvu/135

Rh the animal into the court, was just about to mount him, when the old domestic's fear giving way to the strong attachment which was the principal passion of his mind, he flung himself suddenly at Ravenswood's feet, and clasped his knees, while he exclaimed, "Oh, sir! oh, master! kill me if you will, but do not go out on this dreadful errand. O! my dear master, wait but this day—the Marquis of A comes to-morrow, and a' will be remedied."

"You have no longer a master, Caleb," said Ravenswood, endeavouring to extricate himself; "why, old man, would you cling to a falling tower?"

"But I have a master," cried Caleb, still holding him fast, "while the heir of Ravenswood breathes. I am but a servant; but I was your father's—your grandfather's—I was born for the family—I have lived for them—I would die for them—Stay but at home, and all will be well!"

"Well? fool! well?" said Ravenswood;