his name, whom his ancestors had always upheld until the last struggle of Charles Edward, when they lost their rights to Kinlochlinn, which they held for generations, but since held by them under tenure.
Mr. Stuart was also a distant relation to the unfortunate late laird, whom he served as agent or factor, in consideration of which he held his extensive farm rent free.
Passionately fond of his only son Charles, now eighteen, he spared no means or pains in giving him all the advantages which the best college education could afford; and also furnishing him with all necessaries becoming a thorough gentleman and sportsman; and never before was the liberality of an indulgent and affectionate parent towards a dutiful son more amply rewarded.
Naturally quick and brave, blended with a most honourable and amiable disposition, and possessing great strength and agility according to his years, Charlie Stuart was considered the most successful and accomplished sportsman in his part of the country. Whether on mountain or moor, fishing in a stream or lake, his steady and quick eye made him a leader of all parties. Being a great favourite of the late laird's, he had full liberty to shoot and fish on the estate.
He was also an excellent horseman, his parent furnished him with the best hunter that could be procured, and he was capable of managing the wildest horse with ease.
Mr. Stuart had been a widower ever since his son's birth. His wife had been a very amiable person, and a near relation of Mr. McKay's. Her loss was greatly felt by all her acquaintances, especially by her excellent husband, who could never think of replacing her by marrying another.
Mr. McKay was also a very excellent man, possessing a great share of common sense, and more experienced in worldly affairs than his neighbour, having passed part of his early life in India, where he had a rich brother, and where he accumulated what was considered in the Highlands a fair competency. He married after his arrival from abroad a lady of the McDonalds, with whose
