rs. They are a pigheaded generation. We address
those who have not yet become monomaniacs as regards tobacco.

In order to the full enjoyment of his pipe, the old gentleman had built
on a knoll what Elsie styled a summer-house. Regardless of seasons,
however--as he was of most things--her father used this temple at all
seasons of the year, and preferred to call it a smoking box. Now, as
this smoking-box, with its surroundings, had much to do with the issues
of our story, we bring it under particular notice. It resembled a large
sentry-box, and the willow-clad knoll on which it stood was close to the
river. Being elevated slightly above the rest of the country, a
somewhat extended view of river and plain was obtainable therefrom.
Samuel Ravenshaw loved to contemplate this view through the medium of
smoke. Thus seen it was hazy and in accord with his own idea of most
things. The sun shone warmly into the smoking-box. It sparkled on the
myriad dew-drops that hung on the willows, and swept in golden glory
over the rolling plains. The old gentleman sat down, puffed, and was
happy. The narcotic influence operated, and the irascible demon in his
breast fell sound asleep.

How often do bright sunshine and profound calm precede a storm? Is not
that a truism--if not a newism. The old gentleman had barely reduced
himself to quiescence, and the demon had only just begun to snore, when
a cloud, no bigger than a man's body, arose on the horizon. Gradually
it drew near, partially obscured the sky, and overshadowed the
smoking-box in the form of Angus Macdonald, the father of Ian. (The
demon ceased snoring!)

"Coot tay to you, sir," said Angus. "You will pe enchoyin' your pipe
this fine mornin'."

"Yes, Angus, I am," replied Ravenshaw, with as much urbanity as he could
assume--and it wasn't much, for he suspected the cause of his
neighbour's visit--"you'd better sit down and light your own."

Angus accepted the invitation, and proceeded to load with much
deliberation.

Now it must be known that the Highlander loved the view from that knoll
as much as did his neighbour. It reminded him of the old country where
he had been born and bred on a hill-top. He coveted that willow knoll
intensely, desiring to build a house on it, and, being prosperous, was
willing to give for it more than its value, for his present dwelling lay
somewhat awkwardly in the creek, a little higher up the river, so that
the willows on the kno