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Mr Forret was notorious in his neighbourhood for the debauching young and pretty girls, and was known in Dumfries market by the name of Gibby Gledger, from the circumstance of his being always looking slyly after them; and perceiving Tibby so comely, and at the same time so simple, he judged her a fine prey, hired her at nearly double wages, and moreover gave her a crown as arle-money.
So home Tibby went to her service, and being a pliable, diligent creature, she was beloved by all about the town. Her master attended much about the byre, commended her for her neatness, and when ever a quiet opportunity offered, would pat her rosey cheek, and say kind things. Tibby took all these in good part, judging them tokens of approbation of her good services and was proud of them; and if he once or twice whispered a place and an hour of assignation, she took it for a joke, and paid no farther attention to it. Mr Forret was much from home, kept much company, and had few opportunities of meeting with his pretty dairymaid privately,
In short a whole year passed over without the worthy farmer having accomplished his cherished purpose regarding poor Tibby; still he was quite convinced that it was a matter which might be accomplished with perfect ease, and would lead to a very plea-
