Page:The Cottagers of Glenburnie - Hamilton (1808).djvu/305

 conversation, in which every thing was arranged to mutual satisfaction, she set out on her return to the farm, animated by the delightful hope of having it in her power to dispense a degree of happiness to her fellow creatures. As she slowly proceeded homeward, an elderly man, mounted on a good horse, prepared for carrying double, passed her on the road, and having stopped a minute at Mrs MacClarty's door, turned again to meet her. On coming up, he said he was sent by Mr Stewart of Gowan-brae, with his and Miss Mary's compliments, to beg that she would do them the favour of going there to dinner, and that they should send her back in a few days. Observing that Mrs Mason hesitated concerning what answer she should give, the faithful old servant proceeded to enforce the message, by telling her that he was sure it would do them good to see her—"for I am far mista'en, madam," said he, "if they dinna stand in need o' comfort."