gentleman carried his weapon, there was the sword case, an
excrescence behind the back of the best seat, accessible by lifting
a cushion, where weapons used to be carried, but where in our
peaceful times travellers bestowed their luncheon and their books.

Our chariot was black above, canary yellow below, beautifully
varnished, and with our arms blazoned on each door. It was lined
with dark blue leather and cloth, picked out with blue and yellow
lace in accordance with our liveries, and was a gorgeous spectacle.
I am afraid Emily did not share in Mistress Gilpin's humility when


'The chaise was brought,
But yet was not allowed
To drive up to the door, lest all
Should say that she was proud!'


It was then that Emily and I each started a diary to record the
events of our new life. Hers flourished by fits and starts; but I
having perforce more leisure than she, mine has gone on with few
interruptions till the present time, and is the backbone of this
narrative, which I compile and condense from it and other sources
before destroying it.



CHAPTER VIII--THE OLD HOUSE