boys many a valuable hint for the hooking of trout. He knew no
distinctions of rank or social position. A laird's son was treated
by him with the same dignity or kindness that was shown to the son
of a poor kelp burner; and the coveted seat at the head of the
class was as often occupied by a poor fisherman's lad as by the
better dressed, but not better educated, son of the Inspector of
Fisheries, or the bright little daughter of so great a man as
Lloyd's agent.

Towards the close of morning school, Peter, the jackdaw, announced
by the fluttering of his wings and his chattering that a stranger
was coming to the door, and very soon Mr. Duke, one of the bailies
of the town, entered the school. We had learnt to expect something
good to come of the bailie's visits, and this occasion was no
exception.

He sat down on one of the low forms near Mr. Drever's desk, and
took from his waistcoat pocket a large silver snuffbox.

"Well, Andrew," he cheerily exclaimed, taking a copious pinch
between his finger and thumb and handing the box to the master,
"here's a glorious morning for you, eh? Ay, man, and how are all
your bairns? I see ye aye keep up your number. And who have you at
the head of the class the day? Is it Thora again?"

"Yes," replied Andrew, giving a resounding sneeze and loudly
blowing his nose. "Yes, its just Thora again. She's kept it all the
morning. You see, sir, they all take the same places before the
day's out: whatever way they begin, the smartest are sure to get to
the top."