A solemn serenity appeared to surround the whole place; it was only interrupted by the breezes passing through the large elm-trees which stood near the house, and which my imagination indulged itself in thinking were plaintive sighs of sorrow.

I gently opened the door.

No one appeared, and all was still silent.

The soldier followed.

We came to the foot of the stairs.
"They are come!" said a voice, which I knew to be the father's; "they are come!" He appeared at the top.