In the day-time it was a cheerful place, and a blaze of color.

The girls had never before seen it in its night aspect.
On this May evening it had a quiet beauty that was most impressive.

The full moon shone on the great dark pile of the Abbey towers and the beech avenue beyond.

There was just light enough in the garden to distinguish bushes as heavy masses, and to trace the paths from the grass.

The air was sweet with the scent of flowers.
It is amazing how different conditions can alter a scene: at noon, with the hum from the busy streets, it was commonplace enough; by moonlight it became a mystic bower of enchantment.