A parlour-maid appeared, and then Hermione, coming forward with her pale face lifted, and her hands outstretched, advancing straight to the new-comers, her voice singing: 'Here you are--I'm so glad to see you--' she kissed Gudrun--'so glad to see you--' she kissed Ursula and remained with her arm round her.

'Are you very tired ?' 'Not at all tired,' said Ursula.
'Are you tired, Gudrun ?' 'Not at all, thanks,' said Gudrun.
'No--' drawled Hermione.

And she stood and looked at them.

The two girls were embarrassed because she would not move into the house, but must have her little scene of welcome there on the path.

The servants waited.
'Come in,' said Hermione at last, having fully taken in the pair of them.