He was evidently in a state of supreme self-satisfaction.
"Fine day," he said, "for the time of year." At this moment a small parchment face, and bent figure leaning on a stick, might have been seen peering in through the closed windows.

Sir John looked dispassionately at the family group, and shook his head.
Then he hobbled back to his chair under the cedar.

Tea was evidently a meal to be dispensed with this afternoon.
"I have news for you," said Colonel Bellairs, expanding his chest.
Lady Blore held the tea-pot suspended.
"Everard Constable--Lossiemouth, I should say--is at this moment sitting in the drawing-room at Priesthope, alone with Magdalen." Colonel Bellairs was not disappointed in the effect of his words on his audience.
Aunt Aggie trembled and looked proudly guilty.

Lady Blore put down the tea-pot suddenly, and said, "Thank God!" Aunt Aggie, her mouth open to speak, began to choke.

She looked piteously from her brother to her sister, struggling in vain to articulate.