It was discovered that this produced upon the disturbed spirits of Allan, in his gloomiest moods, beneficial effects, similar to those experienced by the Jewish monarch of old; and so engaging is the temper of Annot Lyle, so fascinating the innocence and gaiety of her disposition, that she is considered and treated in the castle rather as the sister of the proprietor, than as a dependent upon his charity.

Indeed, it is impossible for any one to see her without being deeply interested by the ingenuity, liveliness, and sweetness of her disposition." "Take care, my lord," said Anderson, smiling; "there is danger in such violent commendations.

Allan M'Aulay, as your lordship describes him, would prove no very safe rival." "Pooh! pooh!" said Lord Menteith, laughing, yet blushing at the same time; "Allan is not accessible to the passion of love; and for myself," said he, more gravely; "Annot's unknown birth is a sufficient reason against serious designs, and her unprotected state precludes every other." "It is spoken like yourself, my lord," said Anderson.--"But I trust you will proceed with your interesting story." "It is wellnigh finished," said Lord Menteith; "I have only to add, that from the great strength and courage of Allan M'Aulay, from his energetic and uncontrollable disposition, and from an opinion generally entertained and encouraged by himself that he holds communion with supernatural beings, and can predict future events, the clan pay a much greater degree of deference to him than even to his brother, who is a bold-hearted rattling Highlander, but with nothing which can possibly rival the extraordinary character of his younger brother." "Such a character," said Anderson, "cannot but have the deepest effect on the minds of a Highland host.

We must secure Allan, my lord, at all events.

What between his bravery and his second sight--" "Hush!" said Lord Menteith, "that owl is awaking." "Do you talk of the second sight, or DEUTERO-SCOPIA ?" said the soldier; "I remember memorable Major Munro telling me how Murdoch Mackenzie, born in Assint, a private gentleman in a company, and a pretty soldier, foretold the death of Donald Tough, a Lochaber man, and certain other persons, as well as the hurt of the major himself at a sudden onfall at the siege of Trailsund." "I have often heard of this faculty," observed Anderson, "but I have always thought those pretending to it were either enthusiasts or impostors." "I should be loath," said Lord Menteith, "to apply either character to my kinsman, Allan M'Aulay.