He threw one leg over the pommel and sat still with the ease of a horseman in any of the postures the saddle affords.

"Read me both of those letters again, and slowly." This time John made no remarks.

When he came to the end of Josiah's letter, he looked towards the silent figure seated sideways.

The Squire made no comment, but searched his pockets for the flint and steel he always carried.

Lighting his pipe he slid to the ground.
"Take the rein, John," he said, "or the mare will follow me." Penhallow was deep in the story these letters told, and he thought best when walking.