266 AN ANGLER'S SEASON 



Having emptied the boat by turning 

 it keel-up, we launched it and set out ; 

 crossed the strong flow slantingly ; and 

 arrived at Peter's door, on which Bismarck 

 knocked just as if he were a postman in 

 a hurry. 



Steady footsteps within were heard ; 

 the door was opened ; and a man stood 

 inquiringly in the narrow hall, which was 

 lit by a lamp on either side. 



" I'm tenant of the shooting and fishing 

 across the water," said my friend, "and 

 I have come to see you on a matter of 

 importance." 



The man in the doorway, an athletic 

 figure of middle age and middle height, 

 whose pleasant and alert face was instantly 

 attractive, seemed amused. 



" Tenant only tenant ? Dear me ! 

 You might be the Laird, or even the 

 Factor, by the way ye speak Don't-think- 

 o'-arguing-wi'-me, so to say. However, 

 come awa' in, and bring your suite." 



The fellow spoke in a tone of banter 

 which, I noticed, took Bismarck by sur- 



