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When all of the house that was open to general inspection had

been seen, they returned down stairs; and, taking leave of the

housekeeper, were consigned over to the gardener, who met them at

the hall door.

As they walked across the lawn towards the river, Elizabeth

turned back to look again; her uncle and aunt stopped also; and

while the former was conjecturing as to the date of the building,

the owner of it himself suddenly came forward from the road which

led behind it to the stables.

They were within twenty yards of each other; and so abrupt was

his appearance, that it was impossible to avoid his sight. Their

eyes instantly met, and the cheeks of each were overspread with

the deepest blush. He absolutely started, and for a moment seemed

immovable from surprise; but shortly recovering himself, advanced

towards the party, and spoke to Elizabeth, if not in terms of

perfect composure, at least of perfect civility.