e of her own rank, as an excommunication would have
done in past ages. But all this was removed. As it would seem by a
miracle, the bitter prejudices of that old lady had given way, and
through the broad doors of Houghton Castle, she was invited to take her
place among the peeresses of the land.

This had brought back the fire and bloom into Lady Hope's life, and when
Lord Hilton leaned out, as he had done with Lady Clara, and exclaimed,
"There is Houghton," a glorious smile broke over her features.

CHAPTER XXX.

THE FAMILY MEETING AT HOUGHTON.

The train which took Caroline and her party down to Houghton, reached
their destination just as the sun was setting over the glorious old
trees of the park, and trembling in golden brightness in the ivy that
clung to those twin towers.

Scarcely had they left the train, when a basket-carriage came dashing up
to the platform, and a young lady sprang out, tossing her reins to a
dainty little tiger, who sat behind, erect and decorous, knowing himself
to be an object of general attention.

"So you are really here. I am so glad to find you! All right, this
way--jump in; don't be afraid, the ponies are gentle as gentle can be.
Here we are, never mind the others. There is a carriage on the way for
them; but, of course, I got here first; always do. Give me the reins,
Joe--now for it."

The little carriage wheeled around, and Lady Clara looked back, nodding
to Brown, as her ponies took the road in full speed.

"Nice old fellow, isn't he? I am so glad to get him here, for I am going
back on my music terribly."

"Did you know he is my father?" said Caroline, in a gentle voice.

"No!"

"He is, indeed. I never learned it till yesterday; but it does not seem
strange, for no father was ever more gentle or kind than he has been
since the first day I knew him."

"And Olympia--she is your mother, no doubt?"

"Yes; she is my mother."

"All right, we needn't talk of her! it isn't of the least consequence.
You must not speak so sadly. I dare say she is a good enough person; but
you don't know how to manage her. For my part, I rather like her; but
the old gentleman is just lovely! I am glad he _is_ your father; because
he can take care of us so properly, and grandmamma will like it, I know.
I have got you a chamber next to mine. Our dressing-rooms open into each
other, and they are both near grandmamma's apartments. Dear old lady,
she is just the kindest, sweetest, lovelies