And scarce had I done this before a tall figure crept out along the path, and halted so close beside me that I well-nigh screamed aloud in my terror, for I thought for sure I was discovered.

But no: he had not paused for that, and as he stood scarce three ells from my hiding place I heard him mutter to himself; and I knew by what thou hadst told me, and by his tall form and long white beard, that it was Long Robin who was so near.
"And couldst thou hear what he said ?" "I could hear many words, and fierce ones, too--words that made my flesh creep, and turned me sick with fear for thee, my brother.

He muttered that he was watched and spied upon.

He spoke of other footfalls than his own in the dell, and cursed Joanna for striving to outwit him, vowing he would slay her if once he found that she had dared to set others to watch him.

He spoke the name of Trevlyn once or twice.