I shall have got rid of this restlessness then, and I'll be glad enough to settle down, pose for throne and constitution, cultivate the olive branch, and have family prayers." At eight o'clock he appeared at Ridley Court, and bade his grandfather and grandmother good-bye.

They were full of pride, and showed their affection in indirect ways--Sir William most by offering his opinion on the Bill and quoting Gaston frequently; Lady Belward, by saying that next year she would certainly go up to town--she had not done so for five years! They both agreed that a scamper on the Continent would now be good for him.

At nine o'clock he passed the rectory, on his way, strange to note, to the church.

There was one light burning, but it was not in the study nor in Alice's window.

He supposed they had not returned.