Compared with that, this solitary backstairs arrival seemed tame and dispiriting, and he half regretted that he had not postponed his coming till to-morrow, even in the face of Dr Ponsford's suggestion.
A mile from Grandcourt he caught sight of the square red ivy-covered brick tower of the school among the trees.

Even in winter it looked warm and picturesque.

It was growing dark when he passed the lodge, and crossed the playing-field towards the school-house.

The cabman was awaiting him in the square.
"Never gave me your name," explained he, "and nobody knows nothink about you here.

Five miles is seven-and-six, and luggage is two bob more, and waiting another 'alf-hour's a crown,--namely, twelve shillings, and thank you, mister." Railsford rang the bell at the porter's lodge.