Sir Henry's tone was now the tone of one potentate to another; and, as we have seen, it caused Elizabeth to tame her soul with Greek, as she walked back through the wood to rejoin the Squire.
When she perceived him waiting for her, she wished with some fervour that she were not alone.

She had tried to keep Captain Dell with her, but he had pleaded an urgent engagement at a village near the farther end of the wood.

And then Sir Henry had deserted her.

It was annoying--and unforeseen.
The Squire observed her as she came up--the light, springing step, the bunch of primroses in her belt.

He closed the book, of which he had not in truth read a word.
'You have been a long time ?' 'But I assure you it was well worth while!' She paused in front of him, a little out of breath, leaning on her measuring-pole.