Finding no trace of those I sought, I journeyed to their own country, for I knew where her father held his lands.

I had been ill many weeks and much time had passed, from the day on which I had left her, until I was able to move from my bed.
When I reached the gates of her home, I was told that all had been lately sold, and that others now dwelt within the walls.

I inquired of those new owners of the land, but neither they or any of all those whom I questioned could tell me whither I should direct my search.

The father was a strange man, loving travel and change and movement, restless and unsatisfied with the world, rich and free to make his own caprice his guide through life; reticent he was, moreover, and thoughtful, not given to speaking out his intentions.

Those who administered his affairs in his absence were honourable men, bound by his especial injunction not to reveal his ever-varying plans.