estination late in the evening, without any
accident.

The cottage-ornee (as all middle-sized houses with verandas and French
windows are now designated), which Hornblow had purchased, was, for a
wonder, quite as complete as described in the particulars of sale. It
had the sloping lawn in front; the three acres (more or less) of
plantation and pleasure ground, tastefully laid out, and planted with
thriving young trees; the capital walled gardens, stocked with the
choicest fruit trees, in full bearing; abundant springs of the finest
water; stabling for six horses; cow-house, cart-house, farm-yard, and
_complete piggery_. The dimensions of the conservatory, and rooms in
the interior of the house were quite correct; and the land attached to
it was according to "the accompanying plan," and divided into parcels,
designated by the rural terms of "Homestead," "Lob's-pound,"
"Eight-acre-meadow," "Little-orchard field," etcetera, etcetera.

In short, it was a very eligible purchase, and a very pretty and retired
domicile; and when our party arrived, the flowers seemed to yield a more
grateful perfume, the trees appeared more umbrageous, and the verdure of
the meadows of a more refreshing green, from the contrast with so many
hours' travelling upon a dusty road, during a sultry day.

"Oh, how beautiful these roses are! Do look, my dear father."

"They are, indeed," replied old Hornblow, delighted at the happy face of
his daughter;--"but I should like some tea, Susan--I am not used to so
much jumbling. I feel tired, and shall go to bed early."

Tea was accordingly prepared; soon after which, the old gentleman rose
to retire.

"Well," said he, as he lighted his chamber candle, "I suppose I am
settled here for life; but I hardly know what to do with myself. I must
make acquaintance with all the flowers and all the trees: the budding of
the spring will make me think of grandchildren; the tree, clothed in its
beauty, of you; and the fall of the leaf, of myself. I must count the
poultry, and look after the pigs, and see the cows milked. I was fond
of the little parlour in Cateaton-street, because I had sat in it so
long; and I suppose that I shall get fond of this place too, if I find
enough to employ and amuse me. But you must be quick and give me a
grandchild, Susan, and then I shall nurse him all day long. Good
night--God bless you, my dear, good night."

"Good night, my dear sir," replied Susan, who had coloured dee