I.
In Edinburgh, for a considerable time, Fleeming's family, to three
generations, was united: Mr. and Mrs. Austin at Hailes, Captain
and Mrs. Jenkin in the suburb of Merchiston, Fleeming himself in
the city. It is not every family that could risk with safety such
close interdomestic dealings; but in this also Fleeming was
particularly favoured. Even the two extremes, Mr. Austin and the
Captain, drew together. It is pleasant to find that each of the
old gentlemen set a high value on the good looks of the other,
doubtless also on his own; and a fine picture they made as they
walked the green terrace at Hailes, conversing by the hour. What
they talked of is still a mystery to those who knew them; but Mr.
Austin always declared that on these occasions he learned much. To
both of these families of elders, due service was paid of
attention; to both, Fleeming's easy circumstances had brought joy;
and the eyes of all were on the grandchildren. In Fleeming's
scheme of duties, those of the family stood first; a man was first
of all a child, nor did he cease to be so, but only took on added
obligations, when he became in turn a father.
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