Stopping in their journey wherever there were spots of historical interest, or beautiful scenery, their northern tour occupied some weeks. Madeline's naive and enthusiastic expressions of delight were fully appreciated by the fine taste of her husband. * * * * * * * "Whom hae we here?" said Uncle Malcolm, as he heard the wheels of a carriage driving up to the door. "They are travellers frae a distance, uncle," said Annot Lindsay, "for they hae a large number o' trunks." Malcolm could think of but one such party, and hurrying out, the beaming faces of the young pair greeted him from the carriage window. In a moment Roland was pressed to his heart, and Madeline most affectionately welcomed to the Highland Hall. "How lang hae ye been in England, Roland?" inquired Mr. Graham. "About three months." "And did na let us know, Roland! How is that?" "We wanted to surprise you, my good sir; and then we had a great deal to see, and we knew that you would hurry us on to Scotland; but we are going to pay you the longest visit." Uncle Malcolm took Madeline's hand. "May the dear Lord bless ye, my sweet young leddy! ye hae made a noble choice, an' I doubt na will be a happy wife." "The wife of Roland Bruce must be blessed, Uncle Malcolm; I have known him for more than eleven years, and always loved him even from a child." Madeline looked around her with wondering eyes, for all was so different from the calm features of English landscape. High mountains, clothed with dark, rich foliage, and the rough lineaments of the Scottish Highlands, so totally unlike the picturesque country through which she had so lately passed. But it had great charms--even the novelty made it attractive. Then this Highland home of a Scotch gentleman was so comfortable; such a warm glow of welcome shone upon her everywhere, that the young heart was full of happiness, and the bright face dimpled with rosy smiles. And Annot Lindsay was so piquante! so fresh! so guileless! Her airy little figure, soft blue eyes, and profusion of light ringlets shading her sweet young face, were not her only charms. The warm heart that beat under her blue boddice, and the musical voice that greeted Madeline with such a simple, earnest welcome, gained the heart of the young bride at once; for soon after supper, the two were seated side by side, on the soft sofa of the family room, quite at home; Annot holding Madeline's hand, and looking on her face with evident admiration. "Madeline, I luve ye," whispered the young girl, as she drew closer to her, and leaned her pretty head upon her shoulder--"wunna ye be my sister, Madeline? for I ne'er had ane." She returned the caress of the lovely girl. "That is just my case, Annot, and I can easily adopt you as my little sister; for I shall not return to America without you." "What will Uncle Malcolm say to that?" "Oh! I am wonderful at coaxing; ask Roland about that."