It was not long before the seats on the dais were filled, while the tenants and guests of lesser importance had occupied all the coigns of vantage not reserved.

The order of the day had been carefully arranged by a committee.

There were some speeches, happily neither many nor long; and then festivities were suspended till the time for feasting arrived.

In the interval Caswall walked among his guests, speaking to all in a friendly manner and expressing a general welcome.

The other guests came down from the dais and followed his example, so there was unceremonious meeting and greeting between gentle and simple.
Adam Salton naturally followed with his eyes all that went on within their scope, taking note of all who seemed to afford any interest.