On the right lay the forge, through the open door of which flew the sparks.

A little girl, with bare feet, opened a gate, and they now found themselves in a large open space before the red-painted out-buildings.

The ground was covered with straw, and all the cows of the farm were collected here for milking.

Here they were obliged to drive, step by step, until by the gateway they reached the larger courtyard, which was inclosed by the barns and the principal building itself.

This was surrounded by broad ditches, almost grown over with reeds.