The hours fled on silent, till the sun was high, and the first visitors came--three maids, rosy, not silent, bringing brushes.

They passed, and were followed by two footmen--scouts of the breakfast brigade, who stood for a moment professionally doing nothing, then soberly commenced to set the table.

Then came a little girl of six, to see if there were anything exciting--little Ann Shropton, child of Sir William Shropton by his marriage with Lady Agatha, and eldest daughter of the house, the only one of the four young Caradocs as yet wedded.

She came on tiptoe, thinking to surprise whatever was there.

She had a broad little face, and wide frank hazel eyes over a little nose that came out straight and sudden.