He had only been in an extraordinary state of occupation.

Messages for Lady Racial had to be delivered, and he had become her cavalier and escort suddenly.

The young squire was bewildered; but as he was only one leg in love--if the sentiment may be thus spoken of figuratively--his vanity in his present office kept him from remorse or uneasiness.
He rode at an easy pace within sight of the home of his treasure, and his back turned to it.

Presently there rose a cry from below.

Mr.George looked about.