"To which you might add (if you will take my word for so much) that

I am a good churchman, loyal to King George, and so brought up," I

went on.

"None of which will do you any harm," said Mr. Balfour.

"Then you might go on to say that I sought his lordship on a matter

of great moment, connected with His Majesty's service and the

administration of justice," I suggested.

"As I am not to hear the matter," says the laird, "I will not take

upon myself to qualify its weight. 'Great moment' therefore falls,

and 'moment' along with it. For the rest I might express myself

much as you propose."

"And then, sir," said I, and rubbed my neck a little with my thumb,

"then I would be very desirous if you could slip in a word that

might perhaps tell for my protection."

"Protection?" says he, "for your protection! Here is a phrase that

somewhat dampens me. If the matter be so dangerous, I own I would

be a little loath to move in it blindfold."

"I believe I could indicate in two words where the thing sticks,"

said I.

"Perhaps that would be the best," said he.

"Well, it's the Appin murder," said I.

He held up both his hands. "Sirs! sirs!" cried he.

I thought by the expression of his face and voice that I had lost

my helper.

"Let me explain. . ." I began.

"I thank you kindly, I will hear no more of it," says he. "I

decline in toto to hear more of it. For your name's sake and

Rankeillor's, and perhaps a little for your own, I will do what I

can to help you; but I will hear no more upon the facts. And it is

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