The train came in, and they were taken on to Guild station. From thence they found their way to Mrs. Chester's, losing Oliver Jupp on the road.
"You disagreeable, tiresome things! what brings you here at this late hour?" was the greeting of Mrs. Chester, as she stood at the door, in no amiable mood, to receive her guests. "You knew we were to have dined at three o'clock, and taken dessert and tea on the lawn, I have been obliged to order the dinner to be put back."
"It was the train's fault," said Mr. Lake. "It deposited us halfway and left us."
"Of course you must put in your nonsense, Robert, or it wouldn't be you," retorted Mrs. Chester, who could be objectionably cross when put out, especially to him. "Come along with me, girls, and take your things off. Dinner will be on the table in twenty minutes."
She led the way to the staircase with scant ceremony. Mr. Lake touched her arm.
"A moment, Penelope, just to answer me a question. Is Lydia Clapperton here today?"
"Yes," was Mrs. Chester's answer, delivered impatiently. "Why?"
"Where is she?"
"In the garden, I think--or perhaps with the children. What do you want to know for?"
"Only to get the start of Oliver. He monopolized her yesterday, I hear."