e attracted pleased him. In his heart he was far
prouder of being Jane's husband than of being master of Hatton. She had
driven down to the train in her victoria, and he took his seat proudly
at her side and let his heart fully enjoy the happy ride home in the
sunshine of her love.

A delightful lunch followed and John was glad that the presence of
servants prevented the discussion of any subject having power to disturb
this heavenly interlude. He talked of the approaching war, but as yet
there was no tone of fear in his speculations about its effects. He told
her of his visits to her uncle, and of the evenings they had spent
together at Lord Harlow's club; or he spoke in a casual way of Harry's
coming to Yoden and of little external matters connected with the
change.

But as soon as they were alone Jane showed her disapproval of this
movement. "Whatever is bringing your brother back to the North?" she
asked. "I thought he objected both to the people and the climate."

"I advised him to take Ramsby's offer for Yoden. The children needed
the country and Harry was not as I like to see him. I think they will be
very happy at Yoden. Harry always liked living on the land. He was made
to live on it."

"I thought he was made to fiddle and sing," said Jane with a little
scornful laugh.

"He does both to perfection, but a man's likes and dislikes change, as
the years go by."

"Yes, plenty of women find that out."

Her tone and manner was doubtful and unpleasant, the atmosphere of the
room was chilled, and John said in a tentative manner, "I will now ride
to Hatton Hall. Mother is expecting me, I know. Come with me, Jane, and
I will order the victoria. It is a lovely afternoon for a drive."

"I would rather you went alone, John."

"Why, my dear?"

"It will spare me telling you some things I do not care to speak about."

"What is wrong at Hatton Hall?"

"Only Mrs. John Hatton."

Then John was much troubled. The light went out of his eyes and the
smile faded from his face and he stood up as he answered,

"You have misunderstood something that mother has said."

"Why do you talk of things impossible, John?" Jane asked. "Mrs. Stephen
Hatton speaks too plainly to be misunderstood. Indeed her words enter
the ears like darts."

"Yes, she strips them to the naked truth. If it be a fault, it is one
easy to excuse."

"I do not find it so."

"I am sorry you will not go with me, for I shall have to give a good
deal o