The landlord and his visitor conversed together apart for a minute or so, after which Henry Adolphus said—
“If you see them ’ere to-night or to-morrow morning, will that suit you?”
“Yes, that will do very well.”
In the evening of that same day a pale-faced young gentleman, with weak eyes, and a military-looking young man with a heavy moustache, presented themselves at the “Carved Lion,” and inquired for Peace.
The first named was the bass-viol player, the other being the gentleman who performed on the cornet.
The three performers repaired to Peace’s workshop, where they had one hour’s hard practice. This enabled them to keep together—certainly well enough for a beginning. They had another turn at their instruments on the following morning.
The eventful evening arrived. Peace was not permitted to sally forth from the “Carved Lion” without an escort. The landlord and several of his parlour customers insisted upon accompanying him up the hill, on the brow of which was situated the noble mansion known throughout the county as Broxbridge Hall.
Brickett, who had received a card of invitation, was to come later on. He, however, went up to the great gates and lodge at the entrance, and rang the visitors’ bell. The porter made his appearance in answer to this summons, whereupon Bricket explained to him in a few words who Peace was, and the reason of his visit.
Our hero was then left in charge of the porter, who conducted him into the servants’ hall.
Peace was perfectly astounded at the grandeur and beauty of the place, which had been decorated with flags, garlands, rare and choice exotic plants, and presented all the appearance of a baronial hall of the olden time, such as Nash and Cattermole knew so well how to depict.