I had no idea we were such near neighbours." "Yes," said Mrs.Goddard, "it is very near." Mr.Juxon glanced round the room.

He was not exactly at a loss for words, but Mrs.Goddard did not seem inclined to encourage the conversation.

He saw that the room was not only exceedingly comfortable but that its arrangement betrayed a considerable taste for luxury.

The furniture was of a kind not generally seen in cottages, and appeared to have formed part of some great establishment.

The carpet itself was of a finer and softer kind than any at the Hall.