nsically more capable than English;
there was a greater diffusion of elementary knowledge in the northern
part of the island, but she thought that in society Englishmen were
more agreeable than Scotch, as a general rule, because they were more
certain of their own position. Scotch and Irish people are apt to be
afraid that they are looked down upon, and are too often on the
look-out for slights to be resented, whereas Englishmen, who do not
know much of continental feelings and habits of thought, have a
comfortable conviction that the greatest country in the world belongs
to them, and that nobody can dispute it. Dr. Grant was surprised at
Jane's want of nationality, and confided to Harriett that he was
greatly disappointed in her; and in spite of Harriett's professed
regard for Jane, she could not help seeing the faults which this
keen-sighted observer pointed out.

One day when Dr. Grant and Harriett were in the enjoyment of each
other's company, and flirting in their own interesting manner, and Jane
was sitting beside them with the children, Mr. Brandon and Edgar made
their appearance. Emily and little Harriett met Brandon with
acclamations, and the little ones rejoiced over him in a very noisy
manner, too. Jane gave him a hearty welcome, for she was really
delighted to see his face again, but Miss Phillips and Dr. Grant were
scarcely so affectionate.

"Well, here comes the recreant knight," said Miss Phillips. "What have
you got to say for yourself, Mr. Brandon?"

"To say for myself! Oh! I have a great deal to say for myself. I have
seen a great deal since we parted in London."

"But why have you left your own business and my brother's, and gone
wool-gathering in South Australia?"

"I have just gone wool-gathering, and that must be my excuse. Phillips
will admire the sheep, I am sure. They have just got home in first-rate
condition; easy travelling and plenty of time. But where is Mr.
Phillips and Mrs. Phillips?"

"Oh, mamma is in Melbourne, and we have got a new little brother, and
his name is to be Vivian, after uncle Vivian, you know; and papa is out
over the runs, and will be back on Saturday; and I am sure he will be
very glad to see you, and Edgar too, I dare say," said Emily.

"And where is your sister, Miss Melville? Has she come out to Australia
with you? Is she quite well?" asked Brandon.

"Quite well," said Harriett; "she is in Melbourne with Mrs. Phillips.
We expect them out in a week or two, or