Winter snows had fallen, the great bare branches of the tall trees were gaunt and snow-laden, the fields were one vast expanse of snow, the frost had hardened the icicles hanging from hedges and trees.

The scene seemed strange to him after so many years of the tropical sun.

Yet every breath of the sharp, frosty air invigorated him and brought him new life and energy.
At length the little station was reached, and he saw the carriage with his liveried servants awaiting him.

A warm flush rose to Lord Earle's face; for a moment he felt almost ashamed of meeting his old domestics.
They must all know now why he had left home.

His own valet, Morton, was there.