Robert and I do not hit together as we used to; he is always fault-finding, and ever since that visit from his cousin who is settled in America he has been dissatisfied and heartless.

His cousin has made himself a rich man in ten years there; and Robert says we shall ne'er make money here till we are too old to enjoy it." "I heard tell, too, that Robert has been speculating in railway stock.
Such reports, true or false, hurt you, David.

Prudent men dinna like to trust speculators." "I think the report is true; but then it is out of his private savings he speculates." "Davie, gie me your word that you wont touch a drop o' whiskey for a week--just for a week." "I cannot do it, uncle.

I should be sure to break it.

I don't want to tell you a lie." "O Davie, Davie! Will you try, then ?" "I'll try, uncle.