Lucy made but few remarks in reply, though she seemed pleased with her visit, and stole away down the ladder, followed by her companions.
After this the new residence became yet more of a hobby for Barnet.
Downe's children did not forget their first visit, and when the windows were glazed, and the handsome staircase spread its broad low steps into the hall, they came again, prancing in unwearied succession through every room from ground-floor to attics, while Lucy stood waiting for them at the door.

Barnet, who rarely missed a day in coming to inspect progress, stepped out from the drawing-room.
'I could not keep them out,' she said, with an apologetic blush.

'I tried to do so very much: but they are rather wilful, and we are directed to walk this way for the sea air.' 'Do let them make the house their regular playground, and you yours,' said Barnet.

'There is no better place for children to romp and take their exercise in than an empty house, particularly in muddy or damp weather such as we shall get a good deal of now; and this place will not be furnished for a long long time--perhaps never.

I am not at all decided about it.' 'O, but it must!' replied Lucy, looking round at the hall.