"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 of
justice; purposes for which your Lordship's zeal is known. I
should add that the young gentleman's intention is known to and
approved by some of his friends, who will watch with hopeful
anxiety the event of his success or failure.


"Whereupon," continued Mr. Balfour, "I have subscribed myself with
the usual compliments. You observe I have said 'some of your