An old pair was found for him, and with
much dexterity he performed the clipping, taking little longer to the
business than the expert herd, and giving the shears a professional wipe
on the sacking with which he had prudently defended his clothes.
From somewhere in the back two boys came forward--the Tam and Jock of a
former day--eager to claim acquaintance. Jock was clearly busy, for his
jacket was off and a very ragged shirt was rolled about two stout brown
arms. The "human collie" seemed to be a gentleman of some leisure, for
he was arrayed in what was for him the pink of fashion in dress. The
two immediately lay down on the ground beside Lewis exactly in the
manner of faithful dogs.
The men talked cheerfully, mainly on sheep and prices. Now talk would
touch on neighbours, and there would be the repetition of some tale or
saying. "There was a man in the glen called Rorison. D'ye mind Jock
Rorison, Sandy?" And Sandy would reply, "Fine I mind Jock," and then
both would proceed to confidences.
"Hullo, Tam," said Lewis at last, realizing his henchman's grandeur. "Why
this magnificence of dress?
"I'm gaun to the Sabbath-school treat this afternoon," said that worthy.
"And you, Jock-are you going too?"
"No me! I'm ower auld, and besides, I've cast out wi' the minister."
"How was that?"
"Oh, I had been fechtin'," said Jock airily.
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