On the day he had his talk with the doctor, therefore, he had, as it were, put Grizel aside only because she was happy just now, and so had not Elspeth's need of him.
The doctor and he had met on the hill, whence the few who look may see one of the fairest views in Scotland.

Tommy was strolling up and down, and the few other persons on the hill were glancing with good-humoured suspicion at him, as we all look at celebrated characters.

Had he been happy he would have known that they were watching him, and perhaps have put his hands behind his back to give them more for their money, as the saying is; but he was miserable.

His one consolation was that the blow he must strike Elspeth when he told her of his engagement need not be struck just yet.

David could not have chosen a worse moment, therefore, for saying so bluntly what he said: "I hear you are to be married.