Who could it be, coming at that late hour of a stormy night, to a house to which, even in daylight and good weather, scarcely a visitor ever came?
The sound of the wheels ceased before the door, and was immediately followed by a knock.
"Burglars never come in wheeled carriages," said Miss Tabby to herself, as she recovered her courage, and went and opened the door.
She recoiled with a loud cry.
Every one started up, and hurried forward to see what could now be the matter.
CHAPTER XXXIII.
RETURN OF THE EXILE.
| Long years had seen her roaming |
| A sad and weary way, |
| Like traveller tired at gloaming, |
| Of a sultry summer-day. |
| But now a home doth greet her, |
| Though worn its portals be, |
| And ready kindness meet her, |
| And peace that will not flee.—Percival. |
Sybil Berners stood before them! Sybil Berners, in magnificent beauty! Sybil Berners, developed into a woman of majestic dignity and angelic grace!