You seem to me to have a healthier mind, and I am quite sure that the society of intelligent women (we affect no foolish self-depreciation, Miss Nunn and I) is a good thing for you.
Come back to us as soon as you like; I shall welcome you.' It happened that his return to England was almost simultaneous with the arrival from Madeira of Mr.and Mrs.Thomas Barfoot.

Everard at once went to see his brother, who for the present was staying at Torquay.
Ill-health dictated his choice of residence; Thomas was still suffering from the results of his accident; his wife had left him at a hotel, and was visiting relatives in different parts of England.

The brothers exhibited much affectionate feeling after their long separation; they spent a week together, and planned for another meeting when Mrs.Thomas should have returned to her husband.
An engagement called Everard back to town.

He was to be present at the wedding of his friend Micklethwaite, now actually on the point of taking place.

The mathematician had found a suitable house, very small and of very low rental, out at South Tottenham, and thither was transferred the furniture which had been in his bride's possession since the death of her parents; Micklethwaite bought only a few new things.