This farewell would leave a lasting remembrance in all these
honest hearts. Slowly and sadly the population quitted the yard.
The black soil of the roads leading to the Dochart pit resounded
for the last time to the tread of miners' feet, and silence
succeeded to the bustling life which had till then filled
the Aberfoyle mines.

One man alone remained by James Starr. This was the overman,
Simon Ford. Near him stood a boy, about fifteen years of age,
who for some years already had been employed down below.

James Starr and Simon Ford knew and esteemed each other well.
"Good-by, Simon," said the engineer.

"Good-by, Mr. Starr," replied the overman, "let me add,
till we meet again!"

"Yes, till we meet again. Ford!" answered James Starr. "You know
that I shall be always glad to see you, and talk over old times."

"I know that, Mr. Starr."


"My house in Edinburgh is always open to you."

"It's a long way off, is Edinburgh!" answered the man shaking his head.
"Ay, a long way from the Dochart pit."

"A long way, Simon? Where do you mean to live?"