She was glad he had gone so quickly; partly because it was her wish, and partly because she saw the cry of pain had moved him.

She liked to think he was compassionate.
As a matter of fact, Festing's pity was soon mixed with rage as he came upon a scene of barbarous cruelty.

Three or four rabbits lay quiet upon the grass, but there were others that struggled feebly at his approach; their eyes protruding and strangling wires cutting into their throats.

He thought they were past his help, but one rolled round with half-choked screams and he ran to it first.

It was difficult to hold the struggling animal while he opened the thin brass noose, but he set it free, and it lay paralyzed with fear for a few moments before it ran off.
Then he released the others as gently as he could.