derstand, by adopting a region of history little known, and having
many heroes of the same name, whom it is not easy to keep separate in
one's memory. Some of the traits of the _Spae-wife_, who conceits
herself to be a changeling or twin, are very good indeed. His Highland
Chief is a kind of Caliban, and speaks, like Caliban, a jargon never
spoken on earth, but full of effect for all that.

_July_ 19.--I finished two leaves this morning, and received the
Hamiltons and Mrs. Hemans to breakfast. Afterwards we drove to Yarrow
and showed Mrs. Hemans the lions. The party dined with us, and stayed
till evening. Of course no more work.

_July_ 20.--A rainy day, and I am very drowsy and would give the world
to ------[358]. [Transcriber's Note: In original, there was a blank
space instead of the dashes.] I wrote four leaves, however, and then my
understanding dropped me. I have made up for yesterday's short task.

* * * * *

NOTE.--From July 20th, 1329, to May 23d, 1830, there are no entries
in the Journal, but during that time Sir Walter met with a sad
loss. He was deprived of his humble friend and staunch henchman,
Thomas Purdie. The following little note to Laidlaw shows how
keenly he felt his death:--

"MY DEAR WILLIE,--I write to tell you the shocking news of poor Tom
Purdie's death, by which I have been greatly affected. He had
complained, or rather spoken, of a sore throat; and the day before
yesterday, as it came on a shower of rain, I wanted him to walk
fast on to Abbotsford before me, but you know well how impossible
that was. He took some jelly, or trifle of that kind, but made no
complaint. This morning he rose from bed as usual, and sat down by
the table with his head on his hand; and when his daughter spoke to
him, life had passed away without a sigh or groan. Poor fellow!
There is a heart cold that loved me well, and, I am sure, thought
of my interest more than his own. I have seldom been so much
shocked. I wish you would take a ride down and pass the night.
There is much I have to say, and this loss adds to my wish to see
you. We dine at four. The day is indifferent, but the sooner the
better.--Yours very truly,

"WALTER SCOTT.[359]

"_31st_ (sic) _October_," Qy. _29th_.

To Mr. Cadell, a few days later, he says, "I have lost my old and
faithful servant, m