Perhaps I shall travel for a year or two; perhaps--I'm in a state of transition, to tell the truth.' Buckland revolved this information; his face told that he found it slightly puzzling.
'You once had thoughts of literature.' 'Long given up.' 'Leisure would perhaps revive them ?' 'Possibly; but I think not.' They were now quitting the town, and Peak, unwilling to appear before strangers in a state of profuse perspiration, again moderated his friend's speed.

They began to talk about the surrounding country, a theme which occupied them until the house was reached.

With quick-beating heart, Godwin found himself at the gate by which he had already twice passed.

Secure in the decency of his apparel, and no longer oppressed by bashfulness, he would have gone joyously forward but for the dread of a possible ridiculous association which his name might revive in the thoughts of Mr.and Mrs.Warricombe.

Yet Buckland--who had no lack of kindly feeling--would hardly have brought him here had the reception which awaited him been at all dubious.
'If we don't come across anyone,' said Warricombe, 'we'll go straight up to my room.' But the way was not clear.