Moreover, the trees seemed to know it, for there was a limpness in their attitude as if they were tucking their heads into their shoulders in anticipation of the worst.

The insects were certainly possessed of a premonition.

They had crept away.
It was distinctly an unlikely evening for the sportsman.

The stillness was so complete that the faintest rustle could be heard at a great distance.

Moreover, it was the sort of evening when Nature herself seems to be glancing over her shoulder with timorous restlessness.
Nevertheless, a sportsman was abroad.