I think she will surpass herself to do you honor."

"We shall see that, Simon, we shall see that!" said the engineer,
to whom the announcement of a good breakfast could not be indifferent,
after his long walk.

"Are you hungry, Mr. Starr?"

"Ravenously hungry. My journey has given me an appetite.
I came through horrible weather."

"Ah, it is raining up there," responded Simon Ford.

"Yes, Simon, and the waters of the Forth are as rough as the sea."


"Well, Mr. Starr, here it never rains. But I needn't describe
to you all the advantages, which you know as well as myself.
Here we are at the cottage. That is the chief thing, and I
again say you are welcome, sir."

Simon Ford, followed by Harry, ushered their guest into the dwelling.
James Starr found himself in a large room lighted by numerous lamps,
one hanging from the colored beams of the roof.

"The soup is ready, wife," said Ford, "and it mustn't be kept waiting
any more than Mr. Starr. He is as hungry as a miner, and he shall
see that our boy doesn't let us want for anything in the cottage!
By-the-bye, Harry," added the old overman, turning to his son,
"Jack Ryan came here to see you."