Josephine Cavendish was the great favorite of Clare and Lady Emma, but somewhat younger than either.
“She was timid in strange company, and, except when seated at her harp, studying alone, was perfectly out of place. She was, in truth, a child-like contemplative, who blushed at the rustle of her own dress.
“Hour passed hour, and so the party continued, and stragglers dropped in one by one, until, by eleven o’clock, the rooms were filled with dancers, card players, and persons promenading up and down the wide verandahs, vine walks, orchard shades, or the long stone passages of the house.
“It seemed a family gathering.
“Every one knew every one; no introductions were necessary; all were at home, and everything proceeded harmoniously and pleasantly.
“The lights of the village had long flickered and died.
“The college chimes tolled the hour of midnight; the broad landscape of field and forest lay bathed in moonlight, and one by one the visitors dispersed.
“Some on horse, others on foot, and more in broughams and carriages—all had disappeared down the carriage drive into the forest path, and the receding sounds of their gaiety and ringing laughter fell faintly on the ear.
“The household had long retired to rest.
“All was still.