took the epistle, which was somewhat dirty, the superscription
being in a large though not over-legible hand. He saw, however, that it
was addressed to Master Brinsmead, drover, at Saint Faith's. On opening
it, Jack saw that it purported to be signed by Jock McKillock,
introducing his trusted friend Mr Allan Sanderson, who would make all
the arrangements for the sale of the cattle they had spoken of at their
meeting on the previous year. The price had risen somewhat, he
observed, in consequence of the demand for salt-beef for the fleet, and
the licence-fees, which, against all right and justice, they were
compelled to pay to King William, who, worthy as he had been in other
respects, had committed the same grievous sin of which the King of
Israel had been guilty when he neglected to hue Agag in pieces, in not
taking away the life of the Popish monarch when he was delivered into
his hands, as also in favouring the prelatic priests of the Church of
England.

These remarks had a considerable effect with Brinsmead, who agreed with
the principles of his correspondent, though he did not object to his
master paying the licence-fees, considering they did not come out of his
own pocket.

Jack on delivering the letter to Brinsmead, examined more narrowly the
countenance of the person who had brought it, and felt immediately
convinced that it was no other than Master Pearson. He could not help
giving a glance which showed that he recognised him; but the other
returned his look with so calm and unmoved an expression of countenance,
that he was almost staggered for a moment in his belief. Still, when he
recollected that Pearson might have some cause why he should not wish to
let Brinsmead know of their previous intercourse, he determined--wisely
or not, it may be a matter of opinion--not to address him as an
acquaintance. The minister in the same way stared at him as if they had
never met before. Jack was exceedingly puzzled, not being able to
understand for what reason he did not wish to be recognised. He had
time, however, to think over the matter while Brinsmead and the Highland
drover were making their arrangements, in accordance with the
suggestions contained in the letter. The minister also pulled a volume
out of his pocket, and appeared to be completely absorbed in it.

"But who is this young man with you, Master Brinsmead?" asked Sanderson,
turning an inquisitive eye, as it seemed, towards Jack. "Though you are