The Heart of Mid-Lothian - Penn State University

“I have made inquiry,” said the clergyman, “after the
suspicious characters you described. They have left their
place of rendezvous; but as they may be lurking in the
neighbourhood, and as you say you have special reason
to apprehend violence from them, I will put you under
the charge of a steady person, who will protect you as
far as Stamford, and see you into a light coach, which
goes from thence to London.”
“A coach is not for the like of me, sir,” said Jeanie, to
whom the idea of a stage-coach was unknown, as, indeed,
they were then only used in the neighbourhood of
London.
Mr. Staunton briefly explained that she would find that
mode of conveyance more commodious, cheaper, and
more safe, than travelling on horseback. She expressed
her gratitude with so much singleness of heart, that he
was induced to ask her whether she wanted the pecuniary
means of prosecuting her journey. She thanked him,
but said she had enough for her purpose; and, indeed, she
had husbanded her stock with great care. This reply served
also to remove some doubts, which naturally enough still
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floated in Mr. Staunton’s mind, respecting her character
and real purpose, and satisfied him, at least, that money
did not enter into her scheme of deception, if an impostor
she should prove. He next requested to know what
part of the city she wished to go to.
“To a very decent merchant, a cousin o’ my ain, a Mrs.
Glass, sir, that sells snuff and tobacco, at the sign o’ the
Thistle, somegate in the town.”
Jeanie communicated this intelligence with a feeling
that a connection so respectable ought to give her consequence
in the eyes of Mr. Staunton; and she was a
good deal surprised when he answered—
“And is this woman your only acquaintance in London,
my poor girl? and have you really no better knowledge
where she is to be found?”
“I was gaun to see the Duke of Argyle, forby Mrs.
Glass,” said Jeanie; “and if your honour thinks it would
be best to go there first, and get some of his Grace’s folk
to show me my cousin’s shop”
“Are you acquainted with any of the Duke of Argyle’s
people?” said the Rector.