Therefore, although he would have been ready to sink had the door then opened and the laird entered, he did not much fear any consequences to be counted serious from the unexpected failure of his self-command.

He dragged the boy up by the arm, and set him on his seat, before Agnes could return; but his face was as that of one dead, and he fell forward on the desk.
With a second great cry, Agnes again sprang forward.

She was a strong girl, accustomed to all kinds of work, out-door and in-door.
She caught Cosmo round the waist from behind, pulled him from the seat, and drew him to the door, which because of the heat stood open.

The master had had enough of it, and did not attempt to hinder her.

There she took him in her arms, and literally ran with him along the street..