Untitled - Beeldbibliotheek

198 CARAVAN DAYSboiled potatoes two nights in succession, but Iwas so busy discussing agriculture, and especiallywith relation to the winter treatment of sheep inhigh altitudes, that my duties were neglected.An interest in farmingis of course an asset ofgreat value to the caravannerenormously usefulin getting on terms with the country population.And a fine bird's-eye view of Scottish agricultureisnot the least of the valued possessions that Ihave won from my journeys.Idropped into the kitchen for the third orfourth time that evening a little after eight, tosuggestthat the lassies should come out in abody and see the caravan.Their mother gladlyaccepted the invitation and went off to bringthem, while I sat down in the huge fire-place,beneath great black oak beams, and remarkedthat it was a cosy corner for a winter's night."Positeevely."I waited for a while, wondering at the delay,and at last I became aware of a subdued scuffling,pattering noise overhead, for all the world likemice in the wainscot. It continued for some time,with an occasional murmur of small treble voices.And at last it dawned upon me. All the bairnswere already in bed, and a sudden and dramaticuprising was going on for the occasion. The