A PROPOSAL AND A PROMISE Although it consisted of but a dozen people, the dinner-party at the Abbey that night was something of a function.

To begin with, the old refectory, with its stone columns and arches still standing as they were in the pre-Reformation days, lit with cunningly-arranged and shaded electric lights designed and set up by Morris, was an absolutely ideal place in which to dine.

Then, although the Monk family were impoverished, they still retained the store of plate accumulated by past generations.

Much of this silver was old and very beautiful, and when set out upon the great side-boards produced an affect well suited to that chamber and its accessories.

The company also was pleasant and presentable.