"I would rather hear you sing than an angel," said I; "but pray do not debar me the privilege of standing by your side."
"Just as you please;" and Margaret began to rattle away on the harpsichord.
"O whaur hae ye been, Augustus, my son? O whaur hae ye been, my winsome young man? I hae been to the voters--Mither, mak my bed soon, For I'm weary wi' canvassing, and fain wad lay me doun.
O whaur are your plumpers, Augustus, my son? O whaur are your split votes, my winsome young man? They are sold to the Clique--Mither, mak my bed soon, For I'm weary wi' canvassing, and fain wad lay me doun.
O I fear ye are cheated, Augustus, my son, O I fear ye are done for, my winsome young man! 'I hae been to my true love----'"
"Charming, cruel girl!" cried I, dropping on one knee,--"why will you thus sport with my feelings? Where else should I seek for my true love but here?"
I don't know what might have been the sequel of the scene, had not my good genius, in the shape of Mysie the servant girl, at this moment burst into the apartment. Miss Binkie with great presence of mind dropped her handkerchief, which afforded me an excellent excuse for recovering my erect position.
Mysie was the bearer of a billet, addressed to myself, and marked "private and particular." I opened it and read as follows:--
"SIR--Some of those who are well disposed towards you have arranged to meet this night, and are desirous of a private interview, at which full and mutual explanations may be given. It may be right to mention to you that the question of _the currency_ will form the basis of any political arrangement; and it is expected that you will then be prepared to state explicitly your views with regard to _bullion_. Something _more than pledges_ upon this subject will be required.
"As this meeting will be a strictly private one, the utmost secresy must be observed. Be on the bridge at eleven o'clock this night, and you will be conducted to the appointed place. Do not fail, as you value your own interest.--Yours, &c.
"Who brought this letter, Mysie?" said I, considerably flustered at its contents.
"A laddie. He said there was nae answer, and ran awa'."
"No bad news, I hope, Mr Dunshunner?" said Margaret timidly.