’The living is evidently as small as she said.  It seems strange, for the Beresfords belong to a good family.’

Margaret meanwhile had found her mother.  It was one of Mrs. Hale’s fitful days, when everything was a difficulty and a hardship; and Mr. Lennox’s appearance took this shape, although secretly she felt complimented by his thinking it worth while to call.

’It is most unfortunate!  We are dining early to-day, and having nothing but cold meat, in order that the servants may get on with their ironing; and yet, of course, we must ask him to dinner—­Edith’s brother-in-law and all.  And your papa is in such low spirits this morning about something—­I don’t know what.  I went into the study just now, and he had his face on the table, covering it with his hands.  I told him I was sure Helstone air did not agree with him any more than with me, and he suddenly lifted up his head, and begged me not to speak a word more against Helstone, he could not bear it; if there was one place he loved on earth it was Helstone.  But I am sure, for all that, it is the damp and relaxing air.’

Margaret felt as if a thin cold cloud had come between her and the sun.  She had listened patiently, in hopes that it might be some relief to her mother to unburden herself; but now it was time to draw her back to Mr. Lennox.

’Papa likes Mr. Lennox; they got on together famously at the wedding breakfast.  I dare say his coming will do papa good.  And never mind the dinner, dear mamma.  Cold meat will do capitally for a lunch, which is the light in which Mr. Lennox will most likely look upon a two o’clock dinner.’

’But what are we to do with him till then?  It is only half-past ten now.’

’I’ll ask him to go out sketching with me.  I know he draws, and that will take him out of your way, mamma.  Only do come in now; he will think it so strange if you don’t.’

Mrs. Hale took off her black silk apron, and smoothed her face.  She looked a very pretty lady-like woman, as she greeted Mr. Lennox with the cordiality due to one who was almost a relation.  He evidently expected to be asked to spend the day, and accepted the invitation with a glad readiness that made Mrs. Hale wish she could add something to the cold beef.  He was pleased with everything; delighted with Margaret’s idea of going out sketching together; would not have Mr. Hale disturbed for the world, with the prospect of so soon meeting him at dinner.  Margaret brought out her drawing materials for him to choose from; and after the paper and brushes had been duly selected, the two set out in the merriest spirits in the world.

’Now, please, just stop here for a minute or two, said Margaret.  ’These are the cottages that haunted me so during the rainy fortnight, reproaching me for not having sketched them.’

’Before they tumbled down and were no more seen.  Truly, if they are to be sketched—­and they are very picturesque—­we had better not put it off till next year.  But where shall we sit?’