with some intent out of the ordinary course of events; and that if,
as his lordship supposed, it was indeed his shadow that he had
seen approaching him through the mist, then, from the cowering
and cautious manner that it advanced, there was no little doubt
that his brother's design had been to push him headlong from the
cliff that morning.

A conversation then took place between the judge and the Lord
Advocate; and, in the meantime, a bustle was seen in the hall; on
which the doors were ordered to be guarded, and, behold, the
precious Mr. R. Wringhim was taken into custody, trying to make
his escape out of court. Finally it turned out that George was
honourably acquitted, and young Wringhim bound over to keep
the peace, with heavy penalties and securities.

That was a day of high exultation to George and his youthful
associates, all of whom abhorred Wringhim; and, the evening
being spent in great glee, it was agreed between Mr. Adam
Gordon and George that their visit to the Highlands, though thus
long delayed, was not to be abandoned; and though they had,
through the machinations of an incendiary, lost the season of
delight, they would still find plenty of sport in deer-shooting.
Accordingly, the day was set a second time for their departure;
and, on the day preceding that, all the party were invited by
George to dine with him once more at the sign of the Black Bull
of Norway. Everyone promised to attend, anticipating nothing but
festivity and joy. Alas, what short-sighted improvident creatures
we are, all of us; and how often does the evening cup of joy lead
to sorrow in the morning!