Something like Frank's idea came into Arthur's mind at the sight.

'It makes me think of the return of the prodigal, only I have not wasted
my substance and my father does not come to meet me,' he said, as he
descended from the carriage and went up the broad steps to the piazza,
on which a few young people were walking, unmindful of the chill night
air.

'I need not ring at my own house,' Arthur thought, as he opened the door
and stepped into the hall; and thus it was that the first intimation
which Frank had of his arrival was when he saw him standing in the midst
of a crowd of people, who were gazing curiously at him.

'Arthur!' he exclaimed, rushing forward and taking his brother's hand.
'Welcome home again! I did not hear the carriage, though I was listening
for it. I am so glad to see you! Come with me to your room;' and he led
the way up stairs to the apartment prepared for the stranger.

He had seen at a glance that Arthur was alone, unless, indeed, he had
brought a servant who had gone to the side door; and thus relieved from
a load of anxiety, he was very cordial in his manner, and began at once
to make excuses for the party, repeating in substance what John had
already said.

'Yes, I know; that fellow who drove me here told me,' Arthur said,
throwing off his coat and hat, and beginning to lave his face, and neck,
and hands in the cold water which he turned into the bowl until it was
full to the brim, and splashed over the sides as he dashed it upon
himself.