The maid who opened it was short, dark, and slightly pockmarked.

For the rest, an obvious "_femme-de-chambre_," and very busy.

She said quickly, "Madame has just returned from her ride," and went up the stairs leaving us to shut the front door ourselves.
The staircase had a crimson carpet.

Mr.Blunt appeared from somewhere in the hall.

He was in riding breeches and a black coat with ample square skirts.