enture on any
further remarks before her papa. He gave a long whistle, and then turned
to point out all the interesting localities to Henrietta. There was
something to tell of every field, every tree, or every villager, with
whom he exchanged his hearty greeting. If it were only a name, it
recalled some story of mamma's, some tradition handed on by Beatrice.
Never was walk more delightful; and the girls were almost sorry to find
themselves at the green gate of the Pleasance, leading to a gravel
road, great part of which had been usurped by the long shoots of the
evergreens. Indeed, the place could hardly be said to correspond in
appearance to its name, in its chilly, deserted, unfurnished state; but
the girls were resolved to admire, and while Uncle Geoffrey was deep in
the subject of repairs and deficiencies, they flitted about from garret
to cellar, making plans, fixing on rooms, and seeing possibilities, in
complete enjoyment. But even this could not last for ever; and rather
tired, and very cold, they seated themselves on a step of the stairs,
and there built a marvellous castle of delight for next summer; then
talked over the Sutton Leigh household, discussed the last books they
had read, and had just begun to yawn, when Uncle Geoffrey, being more
merciful than most busy men, concluded his business, and summoned them
to return home. Their homeward walk was by a different road, through the
village of Knight Sutton itself, which Henrietta had not yet seen. It
was a long straggling street, the cottages for the most part in gardens,
and with a general look of comfort and neatness that showed the care of
the proprietor.

"O, here is the church," said Henrietta, in a subdued voice, as they
came to the low flint wall that fenced in the slightly rising ground
occupied by the churchyard, surrounded by a whole grove of noble elm
trees, amongst which could just be seen the small old church, with its
large deep porch and curious low tower.

"The door is open," said Beatrice; "I suppose they are bringing in the
holly for Christmas. Should you like to look in, Henrietta?"

"I do not know," said she, looking at her uncle. "Mamma--"

"I think it might be less trying if she has not to feel for you and
herself too," said Uncle Geoffrey.

"I am sure I should wish it very much," said Henrietta, and they entered
the low, dark, solemn-looking building, the massive stone columns and
low-browed arches of which had in them something p