CHAP. xi. PRIZES FOR HUGH MILLER. 141 



what it was. I saw it and quaked, for the boys were 

 still behind me. I did not betray myself, by look or 

 by sign. Then I got angry, and ran away at my utmost 



" Next day was very wet, but as I was eager to know 

 if my bone was safe, I put up my umbrella, and walked 

 over. As I neared my prize, I ventured to reconnoitre. 

 Thief-like, I looked round in every direction, and then 

 moved forward, and found it quite safe. ... I can now 

 say confidently that you will have the pleasure of dig- 

 ging out the remains of this Holop with your own hands 

 at Thurso East. I am very glad ! 



" I will next go to Holborn Head, pass Slater's 

 monument, and with a spade turn aside a piece of the 

 clay and turf, that you may have the pleasure of striking 

 a passing blow, and get a fossil fish there, also with your 

 own hands. 



" I was at Weydale on the 9th, and managed to ' tirr 

 a bit.' The remains of the Diplopterus are there in 

 abundance ; but they are very much knocked about 

 heads, scales, gill-covers, bits of tails, and such like. I 

 only brought off one moderately passable specimen for 

 you. 



" I expect that you will strive to drop me a note, as 

 to what time I may expect you ; so that I can have my 

 work snugged, and all in order. I shall be most happy 

 to see you, and we shall have a Glorious Day ! ' 



Hugh Miller at last paid his visit to Robert Dick. 

 They had been corresponding for a long time, but had 

 never yet met. Their meeting was full of cordiality. 



