"Is she a near relative, or a very old friend of Mr. Cashel's
family?"

"Neither; a mere acquaintance, undistinguished by anything like even a
passing preference."

"She is a Lady Janet," interposed old Corrigan, "and it is surprising
what charms of influence pertain to those segments of great families,
as they descend a scale in society, and live among the untitled of the
world; besides that, whatever they want in power, they 'take out' in
pretension, and it does quite as well."

"She is 'mauvaise langue,'" said Linton; "and there are few qualities
obtain such sway in society. But who comes here in such haste? It is Tom
Keane. Well, Tom, what has happened--is the Hall on fire?"

"No, sir; but the company 's comin' rowlin' in as fast as 'pays'
down the big avenue, and into the coort; there was three coaches all
together, and I see two more near the gate."

"Then we shall leave you to your cares of host," said Corrigan, rising;
"but don't forget that when affairs of state permit, we shall be
delighted to see you at the cottage."

"Oh, by all means, Mr. Linton. I have acquired the most intense
curiosity to hear about your fine company and their doings--pray
compassionate my inquisitiveness."

"But will you not join us sometimes?" said Linton; "can I not persuade
you to make part of our little company? for I trust we shall be able to
have some society worth showing you."

The old man shook his head and made a gesture of refusal.

"Nay," said he, "I am so unfitted for such scenes, and so grown out of
the world's ways, that I am going to play hermit, and be churlish enough
to lock the wicket that leads down to the cottage during the stay of
your visitors--not against _you_, however. You'll always find the key at
the foot of the holly-tree."

"Thanks--I'll not forget it," said Linton; and he took a cordial leave
of his friends, and returned to the house, wondering as he went who were
the punctual guests whose coming had anticipated his expectations.

He was not long in doubt upon this point, as he perceived Mr. Phillis,
who, standing on the terrace before the chief entrance, was giving
directions to the people about, in a tone of no small authority.

"What, Phillis! has your master arrived?" cried Linton, in astonishment.

"Oh, Mr. Linton!" cried the other, obsequiously, as hat in hand he made
his approaches, "there has been such a business since I wrote--"

"Is he here? Is he come?" asked Linton, impatiently