CHAPTER XX.
PERFECT HARMONY.
It was over twelve months since Warren Courtly came to an untimely end, and the Squire and his son were in the morning-room, where he had kept vigil on the anniversary of Ulick's departure. There was no snow on this occasion, as they looked out of the window at the familiar scene; but the ground was held in the grip of a hard frost, and the white crystals had not yet vanished from the trees.
"Irene is coming for dinner to-night," said the Squire, as he looked at him.
"And who else is coming?"
"Only Dr. Harding and the Vicar and his wife," replied his father.
Ulick did not immediately reply, but stood at the window while the Squire sat down.
Bersak, who was lying on the hearthrug, went to him and licked his hand. He patted the dog's head, but, as he made no movement to go away, Bersak went and laid down at the Squire's feet.