approval of that which I design."

"Well, well," said he; and then again, "Well, well! I will do what I can
for you." Therewith he took a pen and paper, sat awhile in thought, and
began to write with much consideration. "I understand that Rankeillor
approves of what you have in mind?" he asked presently.

"After some discussion, sir, he bade me to go forward in God's name,"
said I.

"That is the name to go in," said Mr. Balfour, and resumed his writing.
Presently, he signed, re-read what he had written, and addressed me
again. "Now here, Mr. David," said he, "is a letter of introduction,
which I will seal without closing, and give into your hands open, as the
form requires. But since I am acting in the dark, I will just read it to
you, so that you may see if it will secure your end--


"PILRIG, _August 26th_, 1751.

"MY LORD,--This is to bring to your notice my namesake and
cousin, David Balfour Esquire of Shaws, a young gentleman
of unblemished descent and good estate. He has enjoyed besides
the more valuable advantages of a godly training, and his
political
principles are all that your lordship can desire. I am not in
Mr. Balfour's confidence, but I understand him to have a
matter
to declare, touching His Majesty's service and the
administration