Page:Modern Literature Volume 3 (1804).djvu/266

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face and figure. Of his person, exquisitely as it was formed, many of them chiefly admired the heighth and strength; and as they went home, well-primed with ale and whiskey, they declared that the deevil a stouter, better-bigged man than their young laird, would enter the shire town, or even walk at the cross of Embro'; and from a Scottish peasant this was a very high eulogium.

The old gentleman expressed an ardent desire, that Maria and the children would make Etterick their summer residence; and also prevail on his niece, Lady Hambden, with her husband and mother, to join the party. Hamilton undertook to have this wish accomplished; and having finished all the business that was immediately pressing, he himself went south to conduct his family and friends. Early in September they arrived, and were so pleased with