He took no notice of David's remark, and David was instantly sorry for it.
"The puir lad is just sorrowful wi' love for Christine, and that's nae sin that I can see," he thought.

"James," he said kindly, "I am sorry enough to grieve you.

Come as soon as you can like to do it.

You'll be welcome." James slightly nodded his head, but did not move; and David left him alone in the little boarded room where they had eaten.

In a few minutes he collected himself, and, like one dazed, walked back to his place in the bank.