d the gentlemen liked
moving, as men always do. So the little party in the carriage were in
very good spirits and harmony. Rupert had gone on before with the
luggage, to make sure that all was right about the rooms and everything
ready. They were engaged in the house to which Lady Brierley's
housekeeper had given them the address.

The day was one of those which travellers tell us of in the south of
Italy, when spring is in its glory or passing into summer. In truth,
the weather was very warm; but Dolly at least never regarded that, in
her delight at the views presented to her. After Castellamare was
passed, and as the afternoon wore on, her interest grew with every
step. Villages and towns, rocks and trees, were steeped in a wonderful
golden light; vineyards and olive groves were etherialised; and when
they drew near to Meta, and the plain of Sorrento opened before them,
Dolly hung out of the carriage almost breathless.

"Is it better than the bay of Naples?" asked Lawrence, smiling.

"I am not comparing," said Dolly. "But look at the trees! Did you ever
see such beautiful woods?"

"Hardly woods, are they?" said Lawrence. "There's variety, certainly."

"Said to be a very healthy place," remarked Mr. Copley. "I envy you,
Dolly. You can get pleasure out of a stick, if it has leaves on it.
Naturally, the plain of Sorrento---- But this sun, I confess, makes me
wish for the journey's end."

"That is not far off, father. Yonder is Sorrento."

And soon the carriage rolled into the town, and turning then aside
brought them to a house on the outskirts of the place, situated on a
rocky cliff overhanging the shore of the sea. Rupert met them at the
gate, and announced a neat house, civil people, comfortable lodgings,
and dinner getting ready.

"I only hope they will not give us maccaroni with tomatoes," said Mrs.
Copley. "I am so tired of seeing maccaroni with tomatoes."

"Don't mind for to-day, mother, dear," said Dolly. "We'll have it all
right to-morrow."

The rooms were found so pleasant, bright and clean, that even Mrs.
Copley was satisfied. The dinner, which was ready for them as soon as
they were ready for it, proved also excellent; with plenty of fresh
vegetables and fruit. Till the meal was over, Dolly had scarce a chance
to see where she was; but then she left the others at the table and
went out at the open glass door upon a piazza which extended all along
the sea front of the house. Here she stood still an