His movements were slow and weary, but there was about him the strained
look of a man who cannot rest. There was no gladness of welcome in his
eyes as the train drew near. It was rather as if he braced himself for a
coming ordeal.
He searched the carriages intently as they ran past him, and a flicker of
recognition came into his face at the sight of a tall figure leaning from
one of them. He lifted a hand in salutation, and limped along the
platform to meet the newcomer.
Sir Eustace was out of the train before anyone else. He met his brother
with the impetuosity of one who cannot stop for greeting.
"Ah, Stumpy! I'm not too late?"
There was strain upon his face also as he flung the question, and in an
instant Scott's look had changed. He grasped the outflung hand.
"No, no, old fellow! It's all right. She is looking forward to seeing
you."
Sir Eustace drew a sharp breath. His dark face relaxed a little. "I've
had a hell of a time," he said.
"My dear chap, I'm sorry," impulsively Scott made answer. "I'd have met
you at the junction, only it was difficult to get away for so long. Do
you mind walking up? They'll see to fetching your traps along presently."
"Oh, all right. Yes, let us walk by all means!" Eustace expanded his
chest, and breathed again, deeply. He put his hand on Scott's shoulder as
they passed through the barrier. "What's the matter with you, my lad?" he
said.
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