When he walked down the street the news that he was visible seemed to spread like wildfire; every house had its gazers.

Excepting the case of the Walthams, he had not as yet sought to make personal acquaintances, appearing rather to avoid opportunities.

On the whole it seemed likely that he would be popular.

The little group of mothers with marriageable daughters waited eagerly for the day when, by establishing himself at the Manor, he would throw off the present semi-incognito, and become the recognised head of Wanley society.

He would discover the necessity of having a lady to share his honours and preside at his table.