She did not foresee evil consequences.
Willy had exhibited more perturbation.

Going into his brother's room on the morning after their conversation, he saw clearly enough that the bed had not been slept upon.

The two friends of Joe Garth's, of whom Ralph had spoken with so much apparent unconcern, had obviously driven him away from home in the depth of the night.

Then came Rotha's explanation.
His worst fears were verified.

Was it conceivable that Ralph could escape the machinations of those who had lain a web that had already entangled the lord of Wythburn himself?
Every one who had served in the trained bands of the Parliament was at the mercy of any man, who, for the gratification of personal spite, chose to become informer against him.
The two strangers had been seen in the city during the preceding day.
It was obviously their purpose to remain until time itself verified the rumor that Ralph had left these parts to escape them.