The horse, on seeing his master, greeted him with a merry neigh.
– Shall I expect you for dinner, Mr. Cranford? – Mr. Brown, the butler, asked courteously as he saw Anthony off.
– I don't think so," said the young man, and, despite his warm, long cloak, designed for the cold, windy November weather, he climbed nimbly onto the shiny back of his horse. – But I need your help, Mr. Brown. Is there no one in your circle who can help me find a cosy, spacious apartment?
– My brother William can help you with that, sir," replied Mr. Brown, without a trace of surprise on his face. He knew it was not in his nature to wonder about the affairs of gentlemen.
– Very well! Tell him I expect him at Greenhall this evening after nine o'clock. Good day, Mr. Brown! – said Anthony and let the horse gallop off at a light trot.
"It's so nice to be back in this city! I never thought I'd miss London so much!" – thought Anthony, enjoying the carriage-laden streets and the pedestrians who were always going about their business.
Young Cranford felt at home in his brother's large, free and lush estate, but it was only when he was back in his hometown, where he had been born and lived all his life, that Anthony could be happy. Happy indeed, for it was here that the beautiful sweet-voiced Miss Salton, to whom he was now on his way, dwelt.
But on the way, deciding that it would be rude of him to turn up at Charlotte's house so suddenly, unannounced, Anthony steered his horse towards Wington Hall to see his cousin and best friend and to congratulate them again, in person, on their marriage.
When he reached the Wingtons' mansion, Anthony dismounted, handed the horse to the stable boy, rode up the tall stone staircase, and knocked firmly on the ornate door. Not a minute later the door was opened, and on entering the house Anthony met the butler in the hall.
– Good afternoon, Mr. Cranford," the butler greeted the guest politely.
– 'Good afternoon. Is Mr. Wington at home? – Anthony enquired. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a maid appeared beside him and carefully took away his hat and cloak.
– Mr. Wington's out hunting, sir," the butler informed him dutifully.
– Well, I'm not surprised. But what about Mrs. Wington?
– She's in her chambers, sir.
– Very well. Show me to her," Anthony ordered. – I'm her cousin, so she needs no introductions or cards from me.