"I thank you, yes, since it is there we are expected to go," said
Hannah.
Jovial led the way to an immense barn that had been cleaned out and
decorated for the occasion. The vast room was adorned with festoons of
evergreens and paper flowers. At the upper end was hung the arms of the
Brudenells. Benches were placed along the walls for the accommodation of
those who might wish to sit. The floor was chalked for the dancers.
"Dere, young women, dere you is," said Jovial loftily, as he introduced
the sisters into this room, and retired.
There were some thirty-five or forty persons present, including men,
women, and children, but no one that was known to the sisters. They
therefore took seats in a retired corner, from which they watched the
company.
"How many people there are! Where could they all have come from?"
inquired Nora.
"I do not know. From a distance, I suppose. People will come a long way
to a feast like this. And you know that not only were the tenants and
laborers invited, but they were asked to bring all their friends and
relations as well!" said Hannah.
"And they seemed to have improved the opportunity," added Nora.
"Hush, my dear; I do believe here come Mr. Brudenell and the ladies,"
said Hannah.
And even as she spoke the great doors of the barn were thrown open, and
the young landlord and his family entered.
First came Mr. Brudenell, a young gentleman of medium height, and
elegantly rather than strongly built; his features were regular and
delicate; his complexion fair and clear; his hair of a pale, soft,
golden tint; and in contrast to all this, his eyes were of a deep, dark,
burning brown, full of fire, passion, and fascination. There was no
doubt about it--he was beautiful! I know that is a strange term to apply
to a man, but it is the only true and comprehensive one to characterize
the personal appearance of Herman Brudenell. He was attired in a neat
black dress suit, without ornaments of any kind; without even a
breastpin or a watch chain.
Upon his arm leaned his mother, a tall, fair woman with light hair,
light blue eyes, high aquiline features, and a haughty air. She wore a
rich gray moire antique, and a fine lace cap.
Behind them came the two young lady sisters, so like their mother that
no one could have mistaken them. They wore white muslin dresses, sashes
of blue ribbon, and wreaths of blue harebells. They advanced with smiles
intended to be gracious, but which were only condescending.