Scotland/Scots > Wilson's tales of the Borders and of Scotland > Volume 3

THE HIGHLAND BOY.
T27
ing-house in Leith. This good fortune he speedily com¬
municated to his family, desiring that James should imme¬
diately set out for Edinburgh. James, however, had been
already unexpectedly provided for, although not alto¬
gether to his liking. He had been engaged to assist some
salmon-curers who had an establishment in the neighbour¬
hood ; and with these he was now employed. The wages,
however, were small, and the work heavy; but it was con¬
sidered by the dutiful boy himself a desirable situation, as
it enabled him to reside with his mother, whom he tenderly
loved, and to contribute more promptly and efficiently to
her support than if he were at a distance. On these
accounts, therefore, he determined to remain in his present
employment for some time at least—this was till the ensu¬
ing term, when it was proposed that the whole family should
proceed to Edinburgh, to join their head; and this was
stated in reply to James’ father, who, though he longed to
have his boy with him, acquiesced in its propriety; and
thus matters stood for several weeks, when it was found
that James’ strength was unequal to the labour imposed
on him. The poor lad was long unwilling to admit this,
even to himself, and continued to toil on with uncomplain¬
ing perseverance ; but a mother’s anxiety and scrutinizing
solicitude soon discovered what he would have concealed.
She saw, from his wan cheek and sunken eye, that he was
tasked beyond his strength, and that a continuance much
•.onger in his present employment might even endanger
his life. Impressed with this idea, she insisted on him
quitting it, and proceeding immediately to Edinburgh to
join his father.
“ But, mother,” said the affectionate boy, “ what will
you do without me ? My wages, though small, are a great
help to you.”
“They are, James, no doubt,” replied his mother;
' but what are your wages, or what would all the gold