How different a sudden action flashed off the surface of a man's nature may be from that which, had time been given, would have unfolded itself from its depths! Bare-headed, Roger Heywood walked beside his son as he led the mare to the spot where Scudamore perforce awaited his return.

They found him stretched on the roadside, plucking handfuls of grass, and digging up the turf with his fingers, thus, and thus alone, betraying that he suffered.

Mr.Heywood at first refrained from any offer of hospitality, believing he would be more inclined to accept it after he had proved the difficulty of riding, in which case a previous refusal might stand in the way.

But although a slight groan escaped as they lifted him to the saddle, he gathered up the reins at once, and sat erect while they shortened the stirrup-leathers.

Lady seemed to know what was required of her, and stood as still as a vaulting horse until Richard took the bridle to lead her away.
'I see!' said Scudamore; 'you can't trust me with your horse!' 'Not so, sir,' answered Mr.Heywood.