The housekeeper and coachman both stood at attention,the latter mechanically pulling down his rolled-up sleeves.
"So you're moving out here,Mrs.Forbes,"was the remark with which the newcomer announced himself.
"Yes,Mr.Evringham.The man has been here to put in the electric bell you ordered.I shall be as quick to call as if I was still in the house,sir,and I thank you--'Zekiel and I both do--for consenting to my making it home-like for him.Perhaps you'd come up and see the rooms,sir?""Not just now.Some other time.I hope 'Zekiel is going to prove himself worth all this trouble."The new coachman's countenance seemed frozen into a stolidity which did not alter.
"I'm sure he'll try,"replied his mother,"and Fanshaw's livery fits him to such a turn that it would have been flying in the face of Providence not to try him.Did you give orders to be met at this train,sir?"Mrs.Forbes looked anxiously toward the set face of her heir.
"No--I came out unexpectedly.I have received news that is rather perplexing."The housekeeper had not studied her employer's moods for years without understanding when she could be of use.
"I will come to the house right off,"was her prompt response."It's a pity you didn't know the bell was in,sir.""No,stay where you are.I see Dr.Ballard is here.We might be interrupted.You can go,'Zekiel."The young fellow needed no second invitation,but turned and mounted the stairway that led to the chambers above.