"I never thought of selling a picture, David; I would not sell one with
your sister in it, for all the gold in Scotland. And this is the first
time I have heard of your intention regarding the ministry. Why did you
not tell me before? How gladly I would have helped you!"
"It is a hope I dinna let mysel' think o' just yet, sir. Dr. Balmuto bid
me bide in the boats for a twelve months, and, you ken, I couldna leave
Maggie her lane, here."
"Perhaps Maggie will marry." He dropped each word slowly, as if it gave
him pain.
"Ay; I hope she will. There was mair than one word spoken aboot a lad in
the village; but after oor great loss, she wouldna hear tell o' any lad;
and the minister thocht we might weel wait thegither for one year onyway.
He'd be right, dootless."
"David, after tea let us take a walk on the beach together. I have
something to say to you."