A sense of freshness, of expectation was in the air.

The great gathered ocean was stirring itself in the distance.

Hugh had forgotten his trouble.
He turned the conversation back to Hester Gresley and her writing.

He spoke of her with sympathy and appreciation, and presently detected a softness in Rachel's eyes which made him jealous of Hester.
By the time the evening was over the imperceptible travelling of the summer sea had reached as far as the tidal wave.
Hugh left when Rachel did, accompanying her to her carriage.

At the door were the darkness and the rain.