support of his family. The rest formed a pasture, in the middle of which
was feeding a goat, confined from ranging far by a cord fastened to one of
its feet, and tied to a piece of wood driven into the ground.

On Mr. Martin's appearance, the shepherd's dog set up a loud and shrill
bark. Two or three ragged children ran into the house, calling out, that
"the _Minister_ was come," (the name which the Scottish clergy generally
receive from their parishioners). On hearing this joyful information,
their mother soon appeared, and having obtained silence, both from the dog
and the children, proceeded to welcome her visitors in the most hospitable
manner, assuring Mr. Martin that her husband had greatly desired this
favour. She added, that the surgeon had seen him that morning, and had
assured her that, could he refrain from fretting, and be left undisturbed,
he did not doubt of David's being able to walk in a few months as well as
ever. "That, I fear," continued she, "is next to impossible; for when he
sees his dear little children going without their usual food, which they
are now obliged to do, as I cannot get more for my work than will supply
them with one good meal a day, he must fret and regret his being laid
aside, and prevented from going to the hill to earn their suppers for
them. However, Sir, I am glad that you are come, for I am sure a word from
you will comfort him, and make him easier than he has been since he met
with this unlucky accident." Mr. Martin immediately went into the hut,
desiring his daughter and John to wait for him on the outside.

While the worthy clergyman was with David, Helen remained talking with his
wife. The children were so shy, that they could not be prevailed on to
come forward and speak to her, but stood wrapping their little heads up in
the corner of their mother's apron, taking a sly peep at the strangers,
when they thought they were not observed. Helen at last recollected her
basket, and asked John to give it to her. As soon as she began to unfold