He had made a vow that he would never take a blow without returning it; and having, like other heroes of antiquity, descended to the infernal regions, he received a cuff from the Arch-fiend; who presided there, which he instantly returned, using the expression in the text.

Sometimes the proverb is worded thus:--'Claw for claw, and the devil take the shortest nails, as Conan said to the devil.' NOTE 20 .-- WATERFALL The description of the waterfall mentioned in this chapter is taken from that of Ledeard, at the farm so called on the northern side of Lochard, and near the head of the Lake, four or five miles from Aberfoyle.

It is upon a small scale, but otherwise one of the most exquisite cascades it is possible to behold.

The appearance of Flora with the harp, as described, has been justly censured as too theatrical and affected for the ladylike simplicity of her character.

But something may be allowed to her French education, in which point and striking effect always make a considerable object.
NOTE 21 .-- MAC-FARLANE'S LANTERN The clan of Mac-Farlane, occupying the fastnesses of the western side of Loch Lomond, were great depredators on the Low Country; and as their excursions were made usually by night, the moon was proverbially called their lantern.