Among those friends it was not surprising to find Rosalind.

That young lady had recently exchanged the duties of governess at the Vicarage for those of temporary sick-nurse at the manor-house, and to-night, in her simple mourning, with a flush of pleasure on her cheek as now and again she turned her eyes to the patient whose recovery did her care such credit she looked--at least Roger, an impartial witness, thought so--more beautiful than ever.

But as Roger made the same discovery every time he and his nurse met, the opinion may be regarded as of relative value.

Tom was there, enjoying himself as usual, indeed rather more than usual, because in the stable hard by, munching his oats, was a horse (the gift of the Squire) who owned him, Tom, as lord and master.

Jill was there too, a little pensive as she looked round for some one who was not there, but trying hard to enjoy herself and seem glad.