Dominey spent a curiously placid, and, to those with whom he was brought into contact, an entirely satisfactory afternoon.

With Mr.Mangan by his side, murmuring amiable platitudes, and Mr.Johnson, his agent, opposite, revelling in the unusual situation of a satisfied landlord and delighted tenants, he made practically the entire round of the Dominey estates.

They reached home late, but Dominey, although he seemed to be living in another world, was not neglectful of the claims of hospitality.

Probably for the first time in their lives, Mr.Johnson and Lees, the bailiff, watched the opening of a magnum of champagne.

Mr.
Johnson cleared his throat as he raised his glass.
"It isn't only on my own account, Sir Everard," he said, "that I drink your hearty good health.