here, she could not say: she was trying with all

and she responded with the deep cur

face expressing unalloyed delight. "I come to this forsaken spot on God

she said gently, but coldly. "I h

nd foolishly thought to take this shorter way across the Moor. Odd's life! I was well-nigh regretting it. I was attacked and robbed last evening,

umphrey," she said, trying to

not robbed

ut across the Heath, and the state of the roads has so tired the horses

p is on your

o my aunt, La

tection? 'Tis scarce fit for your ladys

hy, is with me, besides the driver. Both are old and trusted ser

ut

arted out for a little fresh air and exercise before

. You cannot reach Wirksworth before nightfall

before dark. I hope to reach Wirksworth by nine

ow me to escort you

she said impatiently, "and I beg you to

stood she could just see the road winding down towards Stich's forge, and

ers of a gentleman. He bit his lip and tried to look gallantly disappointed. His keen dark eyes had already perceived that in spite o

o your ladyship on the subje

Humph

me. I was thinking of Philip, and hope

ess just yet," she said guarded

to give up hope, and to keep some faith and trust in your

Sir Humphrey, and in my brother'

d-looking face, and a muttered curse upon his lips. He watched her as