mstances, yet of
gentle race--but like the steward in the Scripture, `work he could not,
to beg he was ashamed.' He might have prospered in the world, but his
pride forbade him. He might have made friends, but his pride forbade
him. He might have wedded himself to wealth and beauty, but there was
no escutcheon, and his pride forbade him. He did marry, and entail upon
his children poverty. He died, and the little he possessed was taken
from his children's necessities to build this record to his dust. Do
not suppose that I would check that honest pride which will prove a
safeguard from unworthy actions. I only wish to check that undue pride
which will mar thy future prospects. Jacob, that which thou termest
_independence_ is naught but pride."

I could not acknowledge that I agreed with the Dominie, although
something in my breast told me that he was not wrong. I made no answer.
The Dominie again spoke.

"Yes; it is a beautiful world for the Spirit of God is on it. At the
separation of chaos it came over the water, and hath since remained with
us, everywhere, but invisible. We see his hand in the variety and the
beauty of creation, but his Spirit we see not; yet do we feel it in the
still small voice of conscience, which would lead us into the right
path. Now, Jacob, we must return, for I have the catechism and collects
to attend to."

I took leave of the Dominie, and went to Mr Turnbull's, to whom I gave
an account of what had passed since I last saw him. He was much pleased
with my reconciliation with the Drummonds, and interested about the
young lady to whom appertained the tin box in his possession. "I
presume, Jacob, we shall now have that mystery cleared up."

"I have not told the gentleman that we have possession of the box,"
replied I.

"No; but you told the young lady, you silly fellow; and do you think she
will keep it a secret from him?"

"Very true; I had forgotten that."

"Jacob, I wish you to go to Mr Drummond's and see his family again; you
ought to do so." I hesitated. "Nay, I shall give you a fair
opportunity without wounding that pride of yours, sir," replied Mr
Turnbull; "I owe him for some wine he purchased for me, and I shall send
the cheque by you."

To this I assented, as I was not sorry of an opportunity of seeing
Sarah. I dined with Mr Turnbull, who was alone, his wife being on a
visit to a relation in the country. He again offered me his advice as
to giving up the pro