[The Antiquary by Sir Walter Scott]@TWC D-Link book
The Antiquary

INTRODUCTION
12/43

In fact, a jest of Andrew Gemmells, especially at the expense of a person of consequence, flew round the circle which he frequented, as surely as the bon-mot of a man of established character for wit glides through the fashionable world, Many of his good things are held in remembrance, but are generally too local and personal to be introduced here.
Andrew had a character peculiar to himself among his tribe for aught I ever heard.

He was ready and willing to play at cards or dice with any one who desired such amusement.

This was more in the character of the Irish itinerant gambler, called in that country a "carrow," than of the Scottish beggar.

But the late Reverend Doctor Robert Douglas, minister of Galashiels, assured the author, that the last time he saw Andrew Gemmells, he was engaged in a game at brag with a gentleman of fortune, distinction, and birth.

To preserve the due gradations of rank, the party was made at an open window of the chateau, the laird sitting on his chair in the inside, the beggar on a stool in the yard; and they played on the window-sill.


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