'I hope you do not mind,' she said, hesitatingly. 'Bessie and I have roamed about the Abbey often, while you were away, and to-day I came alone, and have been reading in the library for an hour or so.'
'I am delighted that the old house should not be quite abandoned.'
How different his tone in speaking of the Abbey from the false Brian's!
There was tenderness and pride of race in every word.
'And I hope that my return will not scare either you or Bessie away; that you will come here as often as you feel inclined. I am something of a recluse when I am at home.'
'You are very kind,' said Ida, moving a little way towards the door.
'Have you been to The Knoll yet?'
'I have only just come from Winchester. I landed at Hull yesterday afternoon, and I have been travelling ever since. But I am very anxious to see my aunts and cousins, especially Aunt Betsy. If you will allow me, I will walk back to Kingthorpe with you.'
Ida looked miserable at the suggestion.
'I—I—don't think Miss Wendover will be at home just yet,' she said.
'She has gone to The Grange, near Romsey, you know, to luncheon.'
'But a luncheon doesn't last for ever. What time do you expect her back?'
'Not till five, at the earliest.'