In Shetland, the young hopeful arrived at the door of his intended.  He was invited in and placed a small parcel on the box bed. He approached the family and shook hands with them all in turn.  He ignored his prospective bride and the hints given by her relations that they know why he has called. 

Eventually her father would make an excuse to go outside.  The suitor had to follow him and ask for his daughter's hand in marriage. When an agreement was reached, they both returned and the parcel was opened to reveal the speering bottle.  It was usually a bottle of whisky and was opened to toast the good news.