On the whole, it was a pleasant, charming journey, the last few miles being along the rough and rocky coast. The dawn was reddening in the east, and the northern morning air felt fresh and invigorating, when the train stopped at Nethermost, a picturesque little hamlet built up and down the sides of the cliff wherever there was room for a sea-bird’s nest.
“Oh, what a charming place!” exclaimed Rosemary, looking out upon it. The line of railway ran along under the cliff, and the little station was built against the rocks.
The guard came and opened the door.
Mr. Force jumped off, and then handed out the ladies of his party, one by one.
The porters were at the same time throwing off their luggage.
In another minute the train had moved on, and the travelers were left standing on the platform, with the sea on the west, the cliffs on the east, and the hamlet of Nethermost scattered at random on the sides of the latter.
“There are the carriages,” said Mr. Force, as he described three vehicles grouped together at a short distance.
At the same time a servant in livery approached, touched his hat, and respectfully inquired:
“Party for Enderby Castle, sir?”
“Yes,” replied Mr. Force.