This had annoyed him, because time was valuable and he was impatient of delay.

Helen approved his industry and the stubborn perseverance that led to his overcoming many obstacles, but sometimes thought he took things too hard and exaggerated their importance.

Now as he leaned against the balustrade he had the physical grace of a well-trained athlete, but she thought his look was fretful and his mind too much occupied.
"I met Bob by the long bluff as I rode home," she said.
Festing looked up sharply.

"Well, I suppose you were bound to meet him before long.

What was he doing at the bluff ?" "Waiting for somebody to help him with his wagon," Helen answered with a laugh.