On Tuesday, by appointment, Mr. Stuart sent the large carryall and also the ox cart to Wolfswalk to meet the Morgans, who were expected to arrive that afternoon.
After their dispatch the whole household of Wolfscliff was in a state of expectancy much more delightful at the anticipation of meeting the poor workman’s family of small children who would be in such ecstasies at their visit than they would have been in looking forward to the arrival of the most distinguished party this country could afford.
But it was quite late at night when the two lumbering vehicles drew up before the door.
The O’Melaghlin had retired to rest.
Stuart had remained in the drawing-room under silent protest, until Palma entreated, exhorted and commanded, using all the forms of the potential mood in order to make him go to bed. Then he laughed and yielded, and Palma and Mrs. Pole “stayed up” to receive the travelers.
They had a nice supper, also, ready for them.
So when they heard the wheels grate on the pebbles before the house both rushed out of the room just in time to see old ’Sias, who alone of all the servants shared their watch, unbolt and unbar the great double front door.
Then the door was opened and the large party filed in.
Palma withdrew to the background to let Mrs. Pole offer the first greetings to her relatives. First came Joe, with one child fast asleep on his shoulder, and another, half asleep, holding his hand by his side.
Then came Jane, with the baby in her arms and two little girls clinging to her skirts, and the eldest boy close behind her.