"As do I. Do you remember how he forced us to learn proper English? He said, 'Bearn, ye'll not have the best o lives until ye learn to speak jest like the English.' He was right, too."
"Indeed, he was. He'd not pass the bread until we got at least two English pronunciations right," said Hannish.
"And now look at us, what language do these Americans speak? I have heard French, German and a word or two completely unfamiliar, just since I boarded the ship."
"You'll get on with it soon enough. Tell me, what can I do to resolve the differences between you and my wife?"
"Nothing, there is nothing to be done."
"'Tis the fault yours or hers?"
"Both, I imagine." She glanced out the window at the trees and bushes along her side of the road. "What sort of trees are those with the white bark?"
"They are Aspen. The odd-looking pine trees are called Blue Spruce, and they are everywhere. Sister, you need not protect me. I am aware something is amiss with Olivia. At first, her letters were filled with love, but I received only two from her these last six months. Both said little and were signed not with 'love' but only with 'affection.'"
"She keeps herself very busy."
"With what?"
"Her society, mostly. She does miss you, particularly when she is forced to attend a ball with an escort instead."
"She attends them often?"
"Olivia is much admired by her society."
"And you, do you attend the balls?"
McKenna sighed. "I find them boring, particularly now that I have a wealthy brother. Every wife hunting baronet, knight, and barrister in Scotland finds me far more fetching these days."
"But you dinna find them so?"
"How can I? None measure up to either you or Cameron."
"How is my brother, by the way? He does not say how he is."
"He took me to the ship and said if I am most fortunate, he will come to America to see that I am being treated properly."
"He always did favor you, although I cannae think why. Does his Glasgow business do well?" Hannish asked.
"Very well. He said they built or repaired some 100 looms and shipped them from Glasgow to all over Scotland last month. The cotton mills flourish as do their suppliers."
"A hundred in a month? I say, he is doing well. Is he happy?"
"Very happy, and his wife Flora, is the brightest star in our sky. You will love her as much as I do. She is perfect for your spirited younger brother and he has calmed considerably now that he is married."