'Ah, you don't ride, Mr.Smith ?' 'I am sorry to say I don't.' 'Fancy a man not able to ride!' said she rather pertly.
The vicar came to his rescue.

'That's common enough; he has had other lessons to learn.

Now, I recommend this plan: let Elfride ride on horseback, and you, Mr.Smith, walk beside her.' The arrangement was welcomed with secret delight by Stephen.

It seemed to combine in itself all the advantages of a long slow ramble with Elfride, without the contingent possibility of the enjoyment being spoilt by her becoming weary.

The pony was saddled and brought round.
'Now, Mr.Smith,' said the lady imperatively, coming downstairs, and appearing in her riding-habit, as she always did in a change of dress, like a new edition of a delightful volume, 'you have a task to perform to-day.