But the pig thought discretion was best, and hurried on complaining.

More than one troop of deer flew past, the does gathered round their lord to protect him, all swerving together like a string of geese as they turned the corner of the shelter and caught sight of Ralph; but the beaters were coming out now, whistling and talking as they came, and gathering into groups of two or three on the ground, for the work was done, and it had been hot going.
Mary Maxwell appeared presently on her grey horse, looking slender and dignified in her green riding-suit with the great plume shading her face, and rode up to Ralph whom she had seen earlier in the afternoon.
"My husband ?" she enquired looking down at Ralph who was lying with his hat over his eyes.
"He left me just now," said her brother, "very hot and red, after a stag which he missed.

That will mean some conversation to-night, Minnie." She smiled down at him.
"I shall agree with him, you know," she said.
"Of course you will; it is but right.

And I suppose I shall too." "Will you wait for him?
Tell him we are going home by the mill.

It is all over now." Ralph nodded, and Mary moved off down the glade to join the others.
Ralph began to wonder how Nicholas would take the news of Chris' decision.