ut wonder in himself, as he drew
near the group of buildings which broke the solitude of the way, whether
Nettie too might hear it, and _perhaps_ recognise the familiar step. The
shadow of St Roque's fell cold over him as he passed. Just from that
spot the light in the parlour window of the cottage became perceptible
to the wayfarer. A shadow crossed the blind as he came in sight--Nettie
unquestionably. It occurred to Dr Rider to remember with very sharp
distinctness at that moment, how Nettie's little shadow had dropped
across the sunshine that first morning when he saw her in his own room.
He quickened his step unawares--perhaps to-night Nettie might be more
accessible than usual, less shut in and surrounded by her family. He
pictured to himself, as he went past the willows, which rustled faintly
with their long bare branches in the night air, that perhaps, as he was
later than usual, Fred might have retired to his den up-stairs; and
Susan might have gone to bear Fred company--who knows? and the children
might be in bed, the dreadful little imps. And for once a half-hour's
talk with the strange little head of the house might comfort the young
doctor's fatigued mind and troubled heart.

For he was sadly fatigued and worn out. What with incessant occupation
and distracted thoughts, this year had been a very exhausting one for
the doctor. He had fagged on through the whole summer and autumn without
any relaxation. He had chafed over Fred's presence for half of the
year, and had been occupied for the other half with matters still more
absorbing and exciting. Even now his mind was in a perpetual ferment,
and no comforting spirit spoke quietness to his soul--no stout heart
strengthened his--no lively intelligence animated his own to worthy
doings. He was very cross and fretful, and knew himself to be so that
particular evening--worried and in want of rest. What a chance, if
perhaps he found Nettie, whose very provocations were somehow more
interesting than other people's most agreeable and tranquillising
efforts, all alone and at leisure! He went on with some palpitations of
hope. As soon as he had entered the cottage, however, he found out the
delusion he was under. The children were the first fact that presented
itself to his senses; an uproar that pervaded the house, a novel tumult
waking all the echoes; glimpses of flying figures pursuing each other
with brushes and mops, and other impromptu weapons; one astride upon
th