I am sure this last outrageous business is enough to break one's heart." "What do you mean ?" said his wife.
"Oh, I suppose you will hear soon enough, so I need not try to keep it from you.

It was Long John Cameron told me.

It is strange that Hughie has not heard.

Indeed, perhaps he has, but since his beloved Ranald is involved, he is keeping it quiet." "What is it ?" said his wife, anxiously.
"Oh, nothing less than a regular pitched battle between the McGregors and the McRaes of the Sixteenth, and all on Ranald's account, too, I believe." Mrs.Murray sat in silent and bitter disappointment.

She had expected much from Ranald.