The distance between Black Hall and Blackville was considerable, and the road was rough, and so it was rather late when our party reached the church.
The congregation were already in their seats, and the pastor was in his pulpit; so there was no opportunity for our friends to meet until after the benediction was pronounced.
Then, as the people were all leaving the church, Mr. Berners sought out young Sheridan and his little niece, and after paying them the compliments of the season, invited them to take seats in his carriage to Black Hall.
They accepted his offer with thanks, and allowed him to conduct them to the coach, in which the Pendletons were already seated.
There was a merry meeting between the young people, notwithstanding the sadness of some reminiscences.
Youth cannot for ever be sorrowful.
Joe put whip to his horses, and started them at a brisk trot over the snow-clad roads, and under the brilliant sky of that clear December day.
They reached Black Hall in good time.
The splendid Christmas fires were blazing on every hearth in the house.
Beatrix Pendleton took Minnie Sheridan to her own bed-chamber, that they might there lay off their bonnets and shawls and prepare for dinner.