The Heart of Mid-Lothian Volume 2 Chapter 15

In which Jeanie Deans, having been graciously admitted to converse with the Queen and facilitated by the Duke of Argyle, returns to London with a token of royal favour and prospects of a pardon for her sister, whilst engaging in rural discourse that bridges ranks and regions. Upon her arrival, she encounters the eager curiosity of her kinswoman Mrs. Glass, whose questions are deftly deferred by the Duke’s emissary, preserving the delicacy of the affairs at hand until fuller tidings may be imparted.