When Tom, reinvested in collar and coat, arrived at the Lodge and inquired for Isabella, he learnt, which did not much surprise him, that she had gone forward. So he went to the Hall by himself, not greatly concerned at being late. He knew that all who were invited would not be able to arrive punctually. There would be two “sitting-downs” to supper, and he would be in time for the second.
When he arrived, he looked about him for Isabella, and saw her seated beside the Scotch gardener, who was helping her to trifle.
With a little difficulty he made his way behind the chairs, in and out among the servants who were waiting on the guests, to where Isabella was dipping into the trifle.
“So sorry, Bella; I couldn’t help it,” said he.
“De-li-ci-ous!” said Bella.
“I beg your pardon?”
“I was speaking to Mr. MacSweeny.”
“I only want to say that I was unavoidably detained.”
“The jam is strawberry,” said Bella.