The absence of a footman at the station had been noted by Mrs. Devereux,
the absence of any man-servant at the house struck her as remarkable.
There was none, and had been none since Miss Percival assumed command; but
at this time Mrs. Devereux knew nothing of Miss Percival. Nevile Ingram,
banging the door open with his knee, jumped out first, and stood to help
the ladies; the next to emerge was Mr. Chevenix who, the moment he touched
earth, said "Right!" and looked as if he had sparkled. It was clear that
he bad abundant health and was satisfied with all the arrangements of
Providence. He surveyed the house, the awaiting virgins at the door,
wished them both good evening, nosed the upper air, snuffed the gale, said
"Good old Wanless--my precious rods!" and dived for them before the ladies
could descend. Thereafter a timidly poising foot and some robust breadth
of stocking revealed the anxieties of Mrs. Devereux. On alighting she
shook herself like a hen, and her draperies rustled to their length. She
found her lorgnettes and surveyed (so to speak) the absent men-servants
with blank misgivings. A maid advanced for her jewel-case, but Mrs.
Devereux, shutting her eyes, said "Thanks, I carry it," and pressed it to
her bosom.
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