112 ANGLING & ART IN SCOTLAND 



Yesterday a diversion had been caused by the 

 arrival of two ladies on a driving tour from Glen- 

 morriston, who were thoroughly soaked to the skin 

 from crossing over the high mountain pass from 

 Loch Clunie ; but to-day nothing had occurred to 

 break the monotony. Only Ronald would appear 

 now and then disconsolately at the window, with 

 the water running in rivulets off his sou'-wester, 

 as if to tempt one out into the inclement weather. 



It was nearly four o'clock, and the wind had 

 fallen for several hours, but still the rain streamed 

 steadily down from a leaden sky. Tea was brought 

 in, and for half-an-hour I refrained from a single 

 glance out of the window, my attention being 

 divided between that delightful afternoon meal and 

 an interesting book. 



A stir behind me caused me to look round ; 

 Ronald's red-bearded face obtruded itself round 

 the edge of the door. 



"Well, Ronald, what is it?" said I. 



"It's stopped raining, sir! would you be for 

 going out for a short time before denner?" 



" All right, I'll have a look outside." 



He was right ; the clouds were lifting and the 

 rain had almost ceased, while a steady breeze had 



