The sound of its footfall was just perceptible, slowly diminishing the distance that divided them.

Then the trees were parted, and a tall, fair man stepped forward on to the opposite bank.
Jack Meredith bowed gravely, and the other sportsman, seeing the absurdity of the situation, burst into hearty laughter.

In a moment or two he had leapt from rock to rock and come to Meredith.
"It seems," he said, "that we have been wasting a considerable amount of time." "I very nearly wasted powder and shot," replied Jack, significantly indicating his rifle.
"I saw you twice, and raised my rifle; your breeches are just the colour of a young doe.

Are you Meredith?
My name is Oscard." "Ah! Yes, I am Meredith.

I am glad to see you." They shook hands.