The room was silent for a short while until Marcus and the children came into the dining hall.

“Well, if it isn’t my brother in law.” Jake quickly turned to smile at Marcus. “Greetings, Marcus. I see you are well.”

“And I see you are still the same man as when we were kin.” Jake chuckled at Marcus’s remark. He looked towards the niece and nephew to greet them.

“Billy! Emily! How have you been? It’s great to see the both of you.”

“Uncle Jake, I missed you!” exclaimed Emily. “Have you brought us gifts from your travels?”

“No, Billy. I only wished to see my family, but I must say that I have been gone a long time. For you look as though you have grown into a fine young man. And Emily, you look as though you have grown into a fine young woman. Oh, how time flies.”

“Jake,” interrupted Marcus, “who is this man?”

“Oh, I haven’t introduced you, yet. Everyone, I would like you to meet my good friend, Luke Walker. He is the director of the town museum.”

“Oh, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Walker.”

“Oh, please call me, Luke. I feel as though I am more of an intruder than a guest. Please forgive me.”

“Oh, think nothing of it, Luke. Your arrival merely caught us by surprise. You are a guest, not an intruder. Besides, any friend of Jake’s is a friend of mine, after all he is my brother in law.” Jake chuckled at Marcus’s remark.

“Mother, I am hungry. When will we be able to dine?” asked Emily.

“Oh, silly me. Here we are talking up a storm, when we should be eating this feast. Please take a seat everyone.” They all sat at the table and began to eat the delicious meal that the maid had prepared.

“This is truly delicious,” said Luke.

“You truly are a magnificent cook.” The maid twiddled her thumbs and held her head down with embarrassment, for no one has ever complimented her cooking.

“Why, t-thank you sir.”

“I don’t believe I got your name, young lady.”

“Oh, my apologies, good sir. But I was not permitted to introduce myself.”

“Well, I believe that it is only proper etiquette for you to introduce yourself.”

“I believe you are correct, but still I require the permission of my master.” Luke looked towards Diana to make a request for the made to introduce herself.

“Mrs. Willow, would please this humble servant your permission to introduce herself?” Diana stared down the maid for a short moment, but she gave into Luke’s request.

“Very well, you have my permission to introduce yourself, maid.”

“Thank you, my lady.” The maid looked at her mistress, and then back at Luke who insisted to know her name.

“You have been given permission by your master or should I say mistress to give your name. Please, I am anxious to your name.” The maid looked at Luke, and decided to introduce herself.