think there are rather respectable obstacles to be overcome?"

"Quite. So what did you suggest?"

"Cameron himself suggested what I think a reasonable solution: to try
for some situation as farm bailiff or manager. He is thoroughly up to
it all, for he has been practically managing things at Redbank for the
last year or two, and has plenty of experience in farm work."

"He ought to be able to find something of the sort. Could the factor
at Taskerton do anything for him, do you think? Christian has already
lost a husband in the service of the estate, and it would be but
restitution to provide her with another."

"The idea struck me, too, though not in precisely the same terms," said
Val with an amused laugh. "I am thinking of writing to him about the
matter."

"You are really satisfied with the man, then?"

"Decidedly so! He struck me as being a very decent sort of fellow. He
has a straight-forward, pleasant manner with him, and is altogether
superior to an ordinary crofter. It would be a good match for
Christian. Poor soul! She deserves a better lot than she enjoys at
present."

"What's his age, do you suppose?"

"Forty-six. Quite a lad, for these parts!"