Page:Scott - Tales of my Landlord - 3rd series - 1819.djvu/289

Rh "I hope not," said Annot, anxiously; "this fit has been a long one, and probably will not soon return. It is fearful to see a mind, naturally generous and affectionate, afflicted by this constitutional malady."

As she spoke in a low and confidential tone, Lord Menteith naturally drew close, and stooped forwards, that he might the better catch the sense of what she said. When Allan suddenly entered the apartment, they naturally drew back from each other with a manner expressive of consciousness, as if surprised in a conversation which they wished to keep secret from him. This did not escape Allan's observation; he stopt short at the door of the apartment—his brows were contracted—his eyes rolled; but it was only the paroxysm of a moment. He passed his broad sinewy hand across his brow, as if to obliterate those signs of emotion, and advanced towards Annot, holding in his hand a very small box made of oak-wood, curiously inlaid.