To the absurdly low-toned remarks of his companion he vouchsafed no reply whatever.
They entered the church to the subdued rustle of Sunday silks and the whisper of Sunday voices.

At the door some one shook hands with Callandar and remarked in a ghostly whisper that it was a fine day.

A grave young man, in black, led them to a pew half way down the aisle.
Most of the pews were already full, the latest comers showing slight signs of hurry; and as they seated themselves the bell stopped and the organ began.
There was a moment's expectant interval and then two doors, one at either side of the pulpit, opened simultaneously and the minister entered from one side, the choir from the other.

Before the minister walked a very solemn man with abnormally long upper lip.

This was Elder John MacTavish, a man of large substance, of great piety and poor digestion.