"It is best to leave such things alone." Ralph was smiling broadly with tight lips by now.
"By my soul, Nick, you are the maddest wind-bag I have ever heard.

All our heads might go for what you have said to-night.

Thank God the servants are gone." "Nick," cried Mary imploringly, "do hold your tongue." Lady Torridon looked from one to the other with serene amusement, and there was an odd pause such as generally fell when she showed signs of speaking.

Her lips moved but she said nothing, and ran her eyes over the silver flagons before her.
When the Maxwells had gone at last, and prayers were over, Chris slipped across the Court with a towel, and went up to the priest's room over the sacristy.

Mr.Carleton looked up from his lamp and rose.
"Yes, Chris," he said, "I will come.