my first clear duty to warn you. These are deep waters, Mr. David,

and you are a young man. Be cautious and think twice."

"It is to be supposed I will have thought oftener than that, Mr.

Balfour," said I, "and I will direct your attention again to

Rankeillor's letter, where (I hope and believe) he has registered

his approval of that which I design."

"Well, well," said he; and then again, "Well, well! I will do what

I can for you." There with he took a pen and paper, sat a while in

thought, and began to write with much consideration. "I understand

that Rankeillor approved of what you have in mind?" he asked

presently.

"After some discussion, sir, he bade me to go forward in God's

name," said I.

"That is the name to go in," said Mr. Balfour, and resumed his

writing. Presently, he signed, re-read what he had written, and

addressed me again. "Now here, Mr. David," said he, "is a letter

of introduction, which I will seal without closing, and give into

your hands open, as the form requires. But, since I am acting in

the dark, I will just read it to you, so that you may see if it

will secure your end -

"PILRIG, August 26th, 1751.

"My Lord,--This is to bring to your notice my namesake and cousin,

David Balfour Esquire of Shaws, a young gentleman of unblemished

descent and good estate. He has enjoyed, besides, the more

valuable advantages of a godly training, and his political

principles are all that your lordship can desire. I am not in Mr.

Balfour's confidence, but I understand him to have a matter to

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