We are always at home,' said Mary; 'go up to the house as fast as ever you can.

I'll go and tell grandmother.' 'And tell them to get us some dinner,' said Maulevrier.
Mary's fluttering figure dipped and was gone, vanishing in the dark labyrinth of shrubs.

The two young men sauntered up to the house.
'We needn't hurry,' said Maulevrier to his companion, whom he had not taken the trouble to introduce to his sister.

'We shall have to wait for our dinner.' 'And we shall have to change our dusty clothes,' added the other; 'I hope that man will bring our portmanteaux in time.' 'Oh, we needn't dress.

We can spend the evening in my den, if you like!' Mary flew across the lawn again, and bounded up the steps of the verandah--a picturesque Swiss verandah which made a covered promenade in front of the house.
'Mary, may I ask the meaning of this excitement,' inquired her ladyship, as the breathless girl stood before her.
'Maulevrier has come home.' 'At last ?' 'And he has brought a friend.' 'Indeed! He might have done me the honour to inquire if his friend's visit would be agreeable.