With a mighty effort Dolly choked back her tears.
She heard the men say,
"And we wish you back, sir, better."
To which Mortomley replied,
"I hope I shall be better, but you will see me here no more."
"No more." Lang opened the door of the carriage for Dolly, who shook hands with him and his colleague ere the vehicle drove off.
"No more." Mortomley had said in those two words farewell to Homewood.
No more for ever did a Mortomley pace the familiar walks, or cross the remembered rooms. No more—no more—with the wail of that dirge in their ears the men went back to their labour exceedingly sad in spirit.
Mr. Meadows, however, was not sad. He sought out Esther crying in a convenient corner.
"Well, I am glad they are gone," he exclaimed, "and shall I tell you why?"