"Lady Dove's present blessing is Miss Crossman. You told me to make friends with her, but I really could not. She told me she preferred her own company when her duties were over, and she did not like to encroach on her walk and rest times," said Silvia.
"I wonder if Toney will break that crust of ice," said Mrs. Hales thoughtfully.
"Artificial ice is impenetrable!" was the Vicar's answer.
Then they all went their various ways, but there was a warm glow in each of their hearts, though the reasons for it were different.
The great barn behind Aldersfield House was the scene of much bustle and work on this eventful morning. Foremost among all the workers was Toney herself, dressed in a short serge dress covered with a big apron. She looked the picture of happiness, and even Aunt Dove's cold congratulations at breakfast had not been able to damp her spirits. Mrs. Faber was making "button-holes," whilst Toney was arranging flowers in vases with her deft magic touch to adorn the long tables. Men were putting up festoons among the dark rafters, and the brightest sunshine was pouring in at the door and windows.
"Won't it be lovely! and won't their eyes open! Gracious stars! What's this?"
A large box was being wheeled in, and Lewis Waycott came behind it with an amused smile on his face.
"Many happy returns," he said, as Toney flew to receive him. "I've brought you some flowers. I know you're particular about having the best." Two men were soon unpacking the box, and displayed a wealth of glorious blossoms, mostly exotics.
"Oh!" gasped Toney, "but--where did you get them?"
"I sent Graham for them to London. I thought your friends should see something new in the way of flowers!"
"That is awfully nice. I never thought of that. It will give them something to talk about, and I was just at my wits' end for more flowers; Aunt Dove doesn't like to denude her hot-houses, but oh, Mr. Waycott, just imagine, uncle went out very early and _stole_ some! He did really, I saw him, but don't tell! and he sent them in as a present from Aunt Dove for my feast! I'm sure she knew nothing about it, so I mustn't thank her."
The two laughed heartily together, and then Lewis looked round at the transformed barn.