“Then thou lookest not,” answered Isoult, “to see Mr Rose, which I trust shall be in some few minutes.”
“I did not, in good sooth,” said he, “only I dared not to ask.”
While he spoke, they heard John’s hand upon the latch.
Kate instantly rushed upon him, crying, “Father, come and see!”
“Come and see what, sweeting?” said he.
“Come and see!” she answered, pulling him after her into the room.
Mr Rose followed more quietly. John, come into the room, stood gazing at Robin as though he knew not what to make of it. Mr Rose passed him and came forward.
“Robin Tremayne!” said he. “I scarce dared to hope it.”
So when all the glad greetings were over, they sat down, and drew their chairs round the fire. Barbara came in with the supper-board, and stared when Robin said, “Good even, Barbara.”
“Sir!” queried she, looking at him in amazement. “Nay, sure! ’tis never Master Robin come back? Well, I be cruel glad!”