Page:The Cottagers of Glenburnie - Hamilton (1808).djvu/373

 imagine, that a self-sufficient pedant will ever be advised. No pope of Rome, in the days of papal power, was ever more jealous of his title to infallibility, than the schoolmaster of Glenburnie. I once, and only once, endeavoured to persuade him how much he would abridge his own labour, and facilitate the improvement of his scholars, by adopting a regular method of teaching, and introducing certain rules into his school. But if I had attempted to take from him his bread, he could not have been more indignant, nor considered himself as more deeply injured. He never forgave me; and I really believe, that the grudge he entertained against me, was the primary motive of his leaving the kirk, and running after these enthusiasts, among whom he has now commenced preacher."

"I have no doubt of it whatever," returned Mrs Mason; "for, as far as my knowledge extends, I have observed pride