On a sudden, the bells of Monkshaven church rang out a welcome to the new year, 1796.
From the direction of the wind, it seemed as if the sound was flung with strength and power right into Philip's face.

He walked down the hill to its merry sound--its merry sound, his heavy heart.

As he entered the long High Street of Monkshaven he could see the watching lights put out in parlour, chamber, or kitchen.

The new year had come, and expectation was ended.

Reality had begun.
He turned to the right, into the court where he lodged with Alice Rose.