Daphne Blakiston was high-spirited. In two or three days she conquered both the Squire and his wife, who were surprised to find themselves in accord in liking anyone.
There was a breeziness in her manner which carried them away in spite of themselves.
"She is a thorough Blakiston," the Squire said.
"She might have been a Courtenay to hear her speak," said his wife.
They set much store by family in Devon.
Derwent found her so pleasant that he went exploring the gardens with her. They had never seemed so worthy of notice before.
"You like this place?" he asked her.
"Of course—it's lovely. You can breathe here. Did you ever try to breathe in London? You can't really—you only cough."
"I have had room to breathe in my life."
"You come from the West. It must be grand to be in the forefront of civilisation—to get away from the restrictions of society."