Seite 326 von 483

We left Edinburgh in a week, passing through Coupar, St.

Andrew's, and along the banks of the Tay, to Perth, where our

friend expected us. But I was in no mood to laugh and talk with

strangers or enter into their feelings or plans with the good

humour expected from a guest; and accordingly I told Clerval that

I wished to make the tour of Scotland alone. "Do you," said I,

"enjoy yourself, and let this be our rendezvous. I may be absent

a month or two; but do not interfere with my motions, I entreat

you; leave me to peace and solitude for a short time; and when I

return, I hope it will be with a lighter heart, more congenial to

your own temper."