Uncle books cutter passage for Deal
After finishing their meal, the narrator and his uncle Mr. Bowling walk down to the harbour where they find a cutter sailing for Deal that evening. While waiting, they stroll about the town discussing the narrator’s uncertain plans. The narrator reflects on his desperate circumstances—reduced to near poverty among foreigners with no acquaintances to advise him. His uncle offers to take him to England where he might find some provision, but the narrator determines to remain in France at all events.
Narrator resolves to stay in France over England
The narrator views England at this time as the worst country in the universe for a poor honest man to live in, and besides other reasons he has for avoiding that kingdom, he is confirmed in his resolution to stay in France by a reverend priest who happens to pass by and overhears them speaking English.
Meeting the Scottish priest in Deal
The priest accosts them in their native language, revealing he is their countryman and offering whatever service he can provide. They invite him to share a glass of wine at a tavern of his recommending. After toasting their healths in good Burgundy, the priest inquires about their origins. When they name their birthplace, he starts up with excitement, wringing their hands and weeping, declaring he comes from the same region and they may be his own relations. The narrator remains initially cautious, recalling a previous adventure with a money-dropper, but when the priest proves knowledgeable about their families and personally knew their grandfather after fifty years’ absence from Scotland, his scruples are entirely removed. The narrator discloses his condition without reserve, displaying his talents to such advantage that the old father looks upon him with admiration and assures him he can make his fortune in France.
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