That is my principle as to choice of an heir.

There are many instances in which blood is not thicker than water, and a friend by election is often worthier and dearer, besides being closer than any relative." "You are right." "Still, consanguinity must be considered a little.

You might leave a certain sum to these Bruces--or if, on inquiry, you found among them any child whom you approved, you could adopt him as your heir, and he could take the name Montgomerie." "No," replied the ear, decisively, "that name is ended.

All I have to consider is my own people here--my tenants and servants.

Whoever succeeds me ought to know them all, and be to them exactly what I have been, or rather what I hope to be." "Mr.Cardross, for instance.