Waverley Volume 1 Chapter XXXIV - Things Mend a Little

In which Mr. Waverley receives a gracious invitation to dine with Major Melville, whose initially stern view softens upon reconsidering various reports of the Highlanders' movements and their probable intentions. The evening unfolds with lively conversation and hospitality, momentarily lightened by a curious incident involving the town-drummer’s attempt to accompany the summons with an improvised and rather unconventional beat.