had been for
some time on the look-out, caught sight of Yatton woods; and when it
did, his heart yearned towards them. The moon shone brightly and
cheerily, and it was pleasant to listen to the quickening clattering
tramp of the horses upon the dry hard highway, as the travellers rapidly
neared a spot endeared to them by every early and tender association.
When they had got within half a mile of the village, they overtook the
worthy vicar, who had mounted his nag, and had been out on the road to
meet the expected comers, for an hour before. Mr. Aubrey roused Mrs.
Aubrey from her nap, to point out Dr. Tatham, who by that time was
cantering along beside the open window. 'Twas refreshing to see the
cheerful old man--who looked as ruddy and hearty as ever.

"God bless you all! All well?" he exclaimed, riding close to the window.

"Yes; but how is my mother?" inquired Mr. Aubrey.

"High spirits--high spirits! Was with her this afternoon! Have not seen
her better for years! So surprised! Ah! here's an old friend--Hector!"

"Bow-wow-wow-wow! Bow--Bow-wow!"

"Papa! papa!" exclaimed the voice of little Charles, struggling to get
on his father's lap to look out of the window, "that is Hector! I know
it is! He is come to see _me_! I want to look at him."

Mr. Aubrey lifted him up as he desired, and a huge black-and-white
Newfoundland dog almost leaped up to the window, at sight of him
clapping his little hands, as if in eager recognition, and then
scampered and bounded about in all directions, barking most
boisterously, to the infinite delight of little Aubrey. This messenger
had been sent on by Sam, the groom; who, having been on the look-out for
the travellers for some time, the moment he had caught sight of the
carriage, pelted down the village through the park, at top speed, up to
the Hall, there to communicate the good news of their safe arrival. The
travellers thought that the village had never looked so pretty and
picturesque before. The sound of the carriage dashing through it, called
all the cottagers to their doors, where they stood bowing and
courtesying. It soon reached the park-gates, which were thrown wide open
in readiness for its entrance. As they passed the church, they heard its
little bells ringing a merry peal to welcome their arrival. Its faint
chimes went to their very hearts.

"My darling Agnes, here we are again in the old place," said Mr. Aubrey,
in a joyous tone, affectionately kissing Mrs. Aubrey