Well, there they all were started on another hare; Mr. Balfour's

cause, and what kind of speeches could be there delivered, and what

officials could be thus turned out, and who would succeed to their

positions. I shall give but the two specimens. It was proposed to

approach Simon Fraser, whose testimony, if it could be obtained,

would prove certainly fatal to Argyle and to Prestongrange. Miller

highly approved of the attempt. "We have here before us a dreeping

roast," said he, "here is cut-and-come-again for all." And

methought all licked their lips. The other was already near the

end. Stewart the Writer was out of the body with delight, smelling

vengeance on his chief enemy, the Duke.

"Gentlemen," cried he, charging his glass, "here is to Sheriff

Miller. His legal abilities are known to all. His culinary, this

bowl in front of us is here to speak for. But when it comes to the

poleetical!"--cries he, and drains the glass.

"Ay, but it will hardly prove politics in your meaning, my friend,"

said the gratified Miller. "A revolution, if you like, and I think

I can promise you that historical writers shall date from Mr.

Balfour's cause. But properly guided, Mr. Stewart, tenderly

guided, it shall prove a peaceful revolution."

"And if the damned Campbells get their ears rubbed, what care I?"

cries Stewart, smiting down his fist.

It will be thought I was not very well pleased with all this,

though I could scarce forbear smiling at a kind of innocency in

these old intriguers. But it was not my view to have undergone so

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