Suddenly a well-known step echoed upon the slate flags without and there was a ring at the bell.
Mrs.Goddard had hardly time to think what she should do, as she laid her book upon her knee and looked nervously over her shoulder towards the door.

It was awkward, she thought, but it could not be helped.

In such weather it seemed absurd to send the squire away because her little girl was not with her.

He had come all the way down from the Hall to spend this dreary afternoon at the cottage--she could not send him away.

There were sounds in the passage as of some one depositing a waterproof coat and an umbrella, the door opened and Mr.Juxon appeared upon the threshold.
"Come in," said Mrs.Goddard, banishing her scruples as soon as she saw him.