The old horse, while trotting leisurely along the level high road, had contrived to tumble down.

Clara did not think very much of this, as the same thing had happened with her before; but, even with an hour or more to spare, there arises a question whether under such circumstances the train can be saved.

But the grey old man reassured her.

"Now, miss," said he, coming to the window, while he left his horse recumbent and apparently comfortable on the road, "where'd you have been now, zure, if I hadn't a few minutes in hand for you ?" Then he walked off to some neighbouring cottage, and having obtained assistance, succeeded in putting his beast again upon his legs.

After that he looked once more in at the window.