The Christmas holidays are only just over.

Rest assured, Dr.Blundell," said Sir Timothy, with grim emphasis, "that I shall give Peter no excuse for leaving his work, if I can help it." There was a tap at the door.

The squire lowered his voice and spoke hurriedly.
"If it is the canon, tell him, in confidence, what I have told you, and say that I should wish him to be present to-morrow, in his official capacity, in case of--" It was the canon, whose rosy good-humoured countenance appeared in the doorway whilst Sir Timothy was yet speaking.
"I hope I am not interrupting," he said, "but the ladies desired me--that is, Lady Belstone and Miss Crewys desired me--to let you know that tea was ready." The canon had an innocent surprised face like a baby; he was constitutionally timid and amiable, and his dislike of argument, or of a loud voice, almost amounted to fear.
Sir Timothy mistook his nervousness for proper respect, and maintained a distant but condescending graciousness towards him.
"I hear you came back by the afternoon train, Sir Timothy.

A London outing is a rare thing for you.

I hope you enjoyed yourself," said the canon, with a meaningless laugh.
"I transacted my business successfully, thank you," said Sir Timothy, gravely.
"Brought back any fresh news of the war ?" "None at all." "I hear the call for more men has been responded to all over the country.