Excerpt:
A MURMUR runs through the crowd; the various idlers grow alert; all eyes are suddenly turned to the south. And there, far away, over the green headland, a small tuft of brown smoke appears, rising into the golden glow of the afternoon, and we know that by and-by we shall see the great steamer with her scarlet funnels come sailing round the point. The Laird of Denny mains assumes an air of still further importance; he pulls his frock-coat tight at the waist; he adjusts his black satin neck-tie; his tall, white, stiff collar seems more rigid and white than ever. He has heard of the wonderful stranger; and he knows that now she is drawing near.
Heard of her? He has heard of nothing else since ever he came to us in these Northern wilds. For the mistress of this household— with all her domineering ways and her fits of majestic temper—has a love for her intimate girl-friends far passing the love of men; especially when the young ladies are obedient and gentle, and ready to pay to her matronly dignity the compliment of a respectful awe.
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