Plainly she was on business of pressing import.

She came nearer, and he saw it was Mary Marston.

The moment she recognized Godfrey, she began to run to him; but, when she came near enough to take notice of his mien, as he stood with his foot in the stirrup, with no word of greeting or look of reception, and inquiry only in every feature, her haste suddenly dropped, her flushed face turned pale, and she stood still, panting.

Not a word could she utter, and was but just able to force a faint smile, with intent to reassure him..