DEAR JOHN,--I shall be much obliged to you to come here with Constable on Monday, as he proposes a visit, and it will save time. By the way, you must attend that the usual quantity of stock is included in the arrangement--that is £600 for 6000 copies. My sum is £1700, payable in May--a round advance, by'r Lady, but I think I am entitled to it, considering what I have twined off hitherto on such occasions. I make a point on your coming with Constable, health allowing. Yours truly, W. S. The result of this meeting is indicated in a note, scribbled by John Ballantyne at the bottom of the foregoing letter, before it was seen by his brother the printer:-- Half-past 3 o'clock, Tuesday. DEAR JAMES,--I am at this moment returned from Abbotsford, with entire and full success. Wish me joy. I shall gain above £600--Constable taking my share of stock also. This title is _Rob Roy--by the Author of Waverley!!!_ Keep this letter for me. J. B. On the same page there is written, in fresher ink, which marks, no doubt, the time when John pasted it into his collection of private papers now before me,-- N. B.--I did gain above £1200.--J. B. {p.161} The title of this novel was suggested by Constable, and he told me years afterwards the difficulty he had to get it adopted by the author. "What!" said he, "Mr. Accoucheur, must you be setting up for Mr. Sponsor too?--but let's hear it." Constable said the name of the real hero would be the best possible name for the book. "Nay," answered Scott, "never let me have to write up to a name. You well know I have generally adopted a title that told nothing."--The bookseller, however, persevered; and after the trio had dined, these scruples gave way.