The Abbot

terest it turns, provided it catches the public attention; for the quality of the wine (could we but insure it) may, according to the old proverb, render the bush unnecessary, or of little consequence.

I congratulate you upon your having found it consistent with prudence to establish your Tilbury, and approve of the colour, and of your boy's livery, (subdued green and pink.)--As you talk of completing your descriptive poem on the "Ruins of Kennaquhair, with notes by an Antiquary," I hope you have procured a steady horse.--I remain, with compliments to all friends, dear Captain, very much

Yours, &c. &c. &c.

THE AUTHOR OF WAVERLEY.

* * * * *

THE ABBOT.

* * * * *

Chapter the

First.

Domum mansit--lanam fecit. Ancient Roman Epitaph.

She keepit close the hous, and birlit at the quhele. GAWAIN DOUGLAS.

The time which passes over our heads so imperceptibly, makes the same gra