The time was slipping by, and there was still no sign of Alton.
At last, however, there was a thud of horsehoofs in the orchard, and a man rode out from among the trees, but Miss Deringham, who had risen with a smile, shut the fingers of one hand a trifle viciously when she saw that it was not Alton.

The man sat loosely in his saddle, and his face was a trifle flushed when he pulled the horse up.
"Is Harry Alton anywhere around, miss ?" he said, and the girl noticed that his voice was uneven.
"He may be here presently," she said.

"I don't know where he is." "I've a long way to ride, and can't wait for him," said the man, swaying a little as he gathered up the bridle.

"There seems to be nobody around the place, and when he comes you might tell him to go up to Townshead's as soon as he can.

Miss Nellie's wanting to see him, and it's Thursday." "Thursday ?" said Miss Deringham.
"Yes," said the man.