True, there was something a little chilly about the empty field.

The usual inspiriting crowd of partisan spectators was absent, and the juniors of Railsford, who usually had to fight for front places, felt it a little dismal when they discovered that they could occupy any position they liked--even the ladies' stand.
Arthur was very angry with himself for not getting Daisy down for the occasion.

Her presence would have lent undoubted prestige both to himself and Dig, as well as to Railsford; and if she could have given the prizes afterwards it would have been a magnificent family affair.
He bemoaned this omission to Railsford himself as he walked down with him to the fields.

However, just before proceedings begun, the wished- for excitement was supplied by three most unexpected arrivals on the course.

The first was that of the doctor's niece, who, having watched the School sports a week ago with great interest, and being secretly rather sorry for the misfortunes which had over taken Railsford's house, saw no reason why she should not take her accustomed place in the stand to-day.