Do you know him well?"
"Oh, yes, quite well," said the Captain; "that is, I've met him at
various functions, where he always makes speeches. Very common, I
call him. I know his father; a mere cottar. I mean," added the Captain
hurriedly, for he remembered that Mr. Rae was of the same humble
origin, "you know, he is thoroughly respectable and all that, but of
no--ah--social or family standing; that is--oh, you understand."
"Quite," said Mr. Rae drily.
"Yes, I shall see him," continued the Captain briskly. "I shall
certainly see him. It is a good suggestion. Sir Archibald knows my
family; indeed, his father was from the Erracht region. I shall see him
personally. I am glad you thought of that, Mr. Rae. These smaller men,
Sheratt and the rest, I do not know--in fact, I do not seem to be able
to manage them,--but with Sir Archibald there will be no difficulty, I
feel quite confident. When can you arrange the interview?"
Mr. Rae sat gazing thoughtfully into the fire, more and more convinced
every moment that he had made a false move in suggesting a meeting
between the Captain and Sir Archibald Brodie. But labour as he might he
could not turn the Captain from his purpose. He was resolved to see Sir
Archibald at the earliest moment, and of the result of the meeting he
had no manner of doubt.
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