Good day for the present.' The stranger rode slowly up the drive from the lodge to the house, and Mr Prothero quickened his pace homeward.

The mare, nothing loath, trotted off hard and fast, and Gladys looked paler than ever.
When they reached the farm gate they were greeted by a loud shout from the 'boys,' Tom and Bill, who were right glad to see pretty Gladys back again.

They both ran as fast as they could to the house, to tell their mistress the good news, and Lion after them.

Mrs Prothero was at the door to receive the travellers, and as Gladys slipped off the mare, took her round the neck, and gave her a hearty kiss.
'My dear David, I am so thankful! so much obliged!' she said, as her more portly husband dismounted.

'Come in quick; Miss Gwynne and Miss Hall are here.