The messenger brought back word that the vicar would be delighted to come, and at the hour named the sound of wheels upon the gravel announced the arrival of Strawberry, the old mare, drawing behind her the vicar and his aged henchman, Reynolds, in the traditional vicarage dogcart.

A moment later the vicar entered the library.
"I am very glad to see you, Mr.Ambrose," said the squire inhospitable tones.

"I have something to show you and I have something to say to you." The two shook hands heartily.

Independently of kindred scholarly tastes, they were sympathetic to each other and were always glad to meet.
"It is just the weather for bookworms," answered the vicar in cheerful tones.

"Dear me, I never come here without envying you and wishing that life were one long rainy afternoon." "You know I am inclined to think I am rather an enviable person," said Mr.Juxon, slowly passing his hand over his glossy hair and leading his guest towards a large table near the fire.