But most she grieved that we were leaving Moonfleet, and showed her grief in such pretty ways, as made me almost glad to see her sorry.

And from her I learned that Maskew was indeed absent from home, having been called away suddenly last night.

The evening was so fine, he said (and this surprised me, remembering how dark and cold it was with us), that he must needs walk round the policies; but about nine o'clock came back and told her he had got a sudden call to business, which would take him to Weymouth then and there.

So to saddle, and off he went on his mare, bidding Grace not to look for him for two nights to come.
I know not why it was, but what she said of Maskew made me thoughtful and silent, and she too must be back home lest the old servant that kept house for them should say she had been too long away, and so we parted.
Then off I went through the woods and down the village street, but as I passed my old home saw Aunt Jane standing on the doorstep.

I bade her 'Good day', and was for running on to the Why Not?
, for I was late enough already, but she called me to her, seeming in a milder mood, and said she had something for me in the house.