After the meal she said that she wished to walk over to The Chestnuts.

She left her father deep in a French novel--he read much more of the lighter literature now than formerly.
Mrs.Ormonde was upstairs with her children; they were singing to her; Annabel heard the choir of young voices as she entered the garden.

The servant who went to announce her brought back a request that she would ascend and hear a song.
She did so.

The last song was to be 'Annie Laurie,' in which the children were perfect.

Annabel took the offered seat without speaking, and listened.
Bessie Bunce was near Mrs.Ormonde.When the song was over she said: 'I'd like to hear Miss Trent sing that again; wouldn't you, mum ?' 'Yes, I should, Bessie.