Here also every yard of the road was redolent of past associations.
How often, while self-apprenticed to the Professor of Odd Jobs, he had passed up and down this road, carrying a basket of tools behind his master.
At length he came to the cross-roads, and to the turnstile, where he had once seen and been accosted by the beautiful Countess of Hurstmonceux.
He rode past this spot, and taking the lower arm of the road entered upon the Brudenell grounds.
A very short ride brought him to the semi-circular avenue leading to the house.
It was now quite dark; but the front of the house was lighted up, holding forth, as it were, its hands in welcome.
As he rode up and dismounted a servant took his horse.
And as he walked up the front steps Mr. Brudenell came out of the front door and, holding out his hand, said cordially:
"You are welcome, my dear Ishmael! I received your letter this morning, and have been looking for you all afternoon!"
"And I am very glad to get here at last, sir," said Ishmael, returning the fervent pressure of his father's hands.