But the people were only shadows to me, and the time a puzzle.

What was not real to me then, I cannot make real to you now.
The afternoon was wet and windy, and the riding-party returned early, all but Rachel and another lady and gentleman.

These came home later.

I was sitting in my room, in the firelight, alone, when Rachel came to me, laughing, in her wet riding-habit, saying she had had enough of the weather.
I said, "Yes, it is a pity you went." "No, not a pity," she said.

Then, "Has not Mrs.Hollingford been here ?" "Yes," I said.
"Here, in this room, with you ?" "There, in that chair, by your side." She turned and looked at the chair with a strange look, which was wonderful to see, but quite indescribable.