"To her I am."
"Not at all, I am sure she already regards you as a friend; so does Sir Lester," said Jack. He knew, however, that it would be better to do as Barry wished. Jack's feelings, as he once again found himself in the Brighton train, can better be imagined than described. Everything was familiar, and there seemed to be no change in the surroundings. He knew the time the train left London Bridge without looking at the guide, and he found there had been no alteration during the years he had been away.
His whole being responded to the sights and sounds that had been so familiar. He eagerly noted every spot of interest as the train sped on its way and brought him nearer to his destination and Winifred. He was coming home as a successful man, and the thought was pleasant. Had he returned a failure he knew his reception would have been none the less hearty, but he would have felt very different. Success begets confidence, and Jack was brimful of it.
At last, Brighton, the dear old place, the scene of so many memories of the past.
He inhaled the breeze with satisfaction, and walked on to the Marine Parade to look at the busy scene. He did not linger long, but went round to his former rooms in the Old Steyne, and found there had been no change there. His welcome assured him of the hearty reception he would get at Sir Lester's.
He took a victoria, and drove to within a couple of miles of The Downs, where he alighted and proceeded on foot.
How beautiful the country looked, so fresh and green, enchanting after the barren lands he had seen for so long. He walked slowly, as though loath to reach happiness too soon. Rounding a turn in the road he came in sight of Sir Lester's house, and his heart beat fast. He halted and feasted his eyes on the much loved spot, that had never been absent from his memory, no matter where his lot might be cast.
As he approached the entrance to the drive he saw the flutter of a white dress on the terrace—it was Winifred. He felt inclined to rush forward and shout wildly, his exultation was so great that it must break bounds.
As he walked up the drive Winifred saw him, and turning to her father said—
"There is someone coming, I wonder who it can be."