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 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." Therewith he took a pen and paper, sat a while in thought, and
began to write with much consideration. "I understand that Rankeillor
approves 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 declare, touching his
Majesty's service and the administration of justice: purposes for
which your lordship's zeal is known. I should add that the young
gentleman's intention is known to and approved by some of his friends,
who will watch with hopeful anxiety the event of his success or
failure.

"Whereupon,