But you are in the bit at last, for I am Prestongrange." So saying, he passed before me into the next room, whither (upon his sign) I followed him, and where he lit a candle and took his place before a business-table.

It was a long room, of a good proportion, wholly lined with books.

That small spark of light in a corner struck out the man's handsome person and strong face.

He was flushed, his eye watered and sparkled, and before he sat down I observed him to sway back and forth.

No doubt he had been supping liberally; but his mind and tongue were under full control.
"Well, sir, sit ye down," said he, "and let us see Pilrig's letter." He glanced it through in the beginning carelessly, looking up and bowing when he came to my name; but at the last words I thought I observed his attention to redouble, and I made sure he read them twice.