Indeed if Malison had killed him outright, he would have been rather pleased than otherwise.

But he was in the habit of reminding the widow of his existence by all occasional call, especially when the time approached for the half-yearly payment of the interest.
And now the report of Alec's condition gave him a suitable pretext for looking in upon his debtor, without, as he thought, appearing too greedy after his money.
"Weel, mem, hoo are ye the day ?" said he, as he entered, rubbing his hands.
"Quite well, thank you, Mr Bruce.

Take a seat." "An' hoo's Mr Alec ?" "There he is to answer for himself," said Mrs Forbes, looking towards the sofa.
"Hoo are ye, Mr Alec, efter a' this ?" said Bruce, turning towards him.
"Quite well, thank you," answered Alec, in a tone that did not altogether please either of the listeners.
"I thocht ye had been raither sair, sir," returned Bruce, in an acid tone.
"I've got a wale or two, that's all," said Alec.
"Weel, I houp it'll be a lesson to ye." "To Mr Malison, you should have said, Mr Bruce.

I am perfectly satisfied, for my part." His mother was surprised to hear him speak like a grown man, as well as annoyed at his behaviour to Bruce, in whose power she feared they might one day find themselves to their cost.

But she said nothing.