The little impression I had made, even supposing I had made any, how soon it would die out! how soon I should sink to be a phantom memory, with which (in after days) she might amuse a husband and children! No, the impression must be clenched, the wax impressed with the seal, ere I left Edinburgh.

And at this the two interests that were now contending in my bosom came together and became one.

I wished to see Flora again; and I wanted some one to further me in my flight and to get me new clothes.

The conclusion was apparent.

Except for persons in the garrison itself, with whom it was a point of honour and military duty to retain me captive, I knew, in the whole country of Scotland, these two alone.