And undoubtedly the result of Allan's long self-examination was a resolve
to tear himself away from Maggie Promoter, and return to his home and his
evident duty. He could show his regard for the Promoters by interesting
himself in David's advancement. Maggie would understand his motives. She
would know what he suffered by her own sufferings, but the weary ache
would die out finally, and leave only in each heart a tender memory which
perhaps they might carry into another life, "if both should not forget."
He almost wept as he made this mental funeral of his dearest hopes; yet he
made it frequently during the following days, and he was making it so
earnestly as he walked into Kinkell to see Dr. Balmuto, that he was at the
manse before he had realized that he was on the road to it.

The doctor had seen him frequently in Kirk, but always in such clothes as
the fishers wore. He glanced at the elegantly dressed young man and
recognized him. Then he lifted the card which Allan had sent in as his
introduction, and said sharply, "Good morning, Mr. Campbell. I have seen
you often lately--in fisher's dress. I hope you have a good reason for the
masquerade, for let me tell you, I know something of John Campbell, your
father, and I doubt if you have his approval."

"I must ask you, doctor, to take my motives on trust for the present. I
assure you I think they are good ones. But I came here this morning to
speak of David Promoter. I have been staying with him for some weeks. I
respect and admire him. I desire out of my abundance to help him."

"He is a proud lad. I doubt if he will let you."

"He is quite willing that I should have this pleasure, if he has your
permission. I wish him to go to Glasgow this autumn; he says you told him
to stay in the boats for a year."