To the left were vineyards rising on a gentle slope; to the right the crests of ancient trees showed above the wall of a garden.

The carriage halted at a doorway in the wall.

The weather-worn door stood wide.

The passengers alighted, and at the master's nod the coachman drove away to the stable.

A broad path led through a chestnut avenue to the house, which at first sight had an almost neglected appearance.