Page:The Family Legend.pdf/148

ARGYLL, (to Maclean, &c.)

Most worthy chief, and honour'd guests and kinsmen,

I crave your pardon for this short delay:
One of our company is wanting still,
For whom we have reserved this empty place;
Nor will the chief of Mull unkindly take it;
That on our better hand this chair of honour
Is for a lady kept.

Omnes.

A lady!

(A general murmur of surprise is heard through the hall.)

ARGYLL.

Yes;

Who henceforth of this house the mistress is;
And were it palace of our Scottish king,
Would so deserve to be.

Omnes.

We give you joy, my lord.

(A confused murmur heard again.)

MACLEAN.

We give you joy, my lord: your age is bless'd.