"There is only one change I see," he murmured. "The old sundial has gone. But that is no matter for surprise."
Before Tanza could reply there came the sound of voices from behind a belt of shrubs. It was almost impossible to recognise the tones of John Charlock, so full and hearty and generous with the flow of life were they. They could hear also the quiet ripple of laughter on the part of his companion, and a moment later husband and wife came in sight. There was no doubt as to their welcome. They came forward with delighted surprise and hands extended. Not much was said for a little while, until they divided into pairs, and Charlock walked down the drive, with Grey, somewhat silent and speculative, by his side.
"What a paradise you have made here!" the latter exclaimed.
"I haven't done it," Charlock said joyously. "It is my wife. Everything she touches she adorns, and I owe you and Tanza a deep debt of gratitude for what you said to me that day on board the yacht. It seemed impossible that she——"
"The impossible has become the real," Grey said.
Charlock paused a moment and threw back his head.
"Indeed it has," he said in a voice just above a whisper. "I have found what I was looking for at last. I have been paid for all my suffering. But I can't talk about such matters. They are a bit too sacred. Now let us go inside. I want to show you my ideal of an English home and an English life."
THE END
*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE SUNDIAL ***