The poor old rector is worried to know how to act for the best.

His daughter's happiness is at stake, and so my unhappy affairs have drifted aimlessly for more than a year." "The drifting must cease," said Brett decisively.

"Beechcroft Hall will probably provide scope for activity." They reached Stowmarket by a late train.

Next morning they drove to Sleagill--a pretty village, with a Norman church tower standing squarely in the midst of lofty trees, and white-washed cottages and red-tiled villa-residences nestling in gardens.
"A bower of orchards and green lanes," murmured the barrister as their dog-cart sped rapidly over the smooth highway.
Hume was driving.

He pointed out the rectory.