CLOVA. 147 



the brow of the hill, as far as the public road. We there 

 shook hands, and parted. I now retraced my steps a few 

 miles on the Montrose road, and then, by means of that 

 fine local instinct for which I am remarkable, I crossed the 

 country to the right hand, by Langley Park, the manse of 

 Dim, &c., and arrived here abont ten o'clock last night, 

 after a pleasant tramp of about sixteen miles. I now 

 intend treating myself to a gig to Cortachy, after which I 

 shall have only eight miles to walk. In a few hours, 

 therefore, I hope to be in the arms of Graham and 

 Greville. I was in the King's Arms all last night. 

 N( m, my dearest, I hope and pray that this will find you 

 well. I assure you that I am so, and quite comfortable, 

 mind and body. God bless you. — Ever, &c. 

 " P.S. — Remember to take in the mouse." 



" Clova, Friday evening. 

 " I Avrote you a few lines from Brechin, after which I 

 embarked on board my gig, from which I dismounted at 

 Cortachy. I had not walked fifty yards before I overtook 

 the son of our Clova landlord in a cart. I remembered 

 his phiz from last year, and after we had interchanged 

 greetings by means of broad grins, I favoured him with 

 my rod and fishing basket, which greatly lightened my 

 own load. I had then a cool pleasant walk to Clova, 

 where I found the party at dinner and tea conjoined. I 



