The evening, save when a concert called them forth, was generally a time of peaceful reading and talking, the presence of friends making no difference in the simple arrangements of the home.

If a man came to dine at this house, it was greatly preferred that he should not present himself in the costume of a waiter, and only those came who were sufficiently intimate with the Westlakes to know their habits.

One evening weekly saw a purely Socialist gathering; three or four artisans were always among the guests.

On that occasion Adela was sorely tempted to plead a headache, but for several reasons she resisted.

It was a trial to her, for she was naturally expected to talk a good deal with the visitors, several of whom she herself had entertained at Wanley.