As I thought that name of home, and recalled the image of that figure awaiting me between four walls, my heart beat upon my bosom.
My troubles began with my return.

She ran to greet me with an obvious and affecting pleasure.

She was clad, besides, entirely in the new clothes that I had bought for her; looked in them beyond expression well; and must walk about and drop me curtseys to display them and to be admired.

I am sure I did it with an ill grace, for I thought to have choked upon the words.
"Well," she said, "if you will not be caring for my pretty clothes, see what I have done with our two chambers." And she showed me the place all very finely swept and the fires glowing in the two chimneys.
I was glad of a chance to seem a little more severe than I quite felt.
"Catriona," said I, "I am very much displeased with you, and you must never again lay a hand upon my room.

One of us two must have the rule while we are here together; it is most fit it should be I who am both the man and the elder; and I give you that for my command." She dropped me one of her curtseys which were extraordinary taking.