The road then became a bridle one, and was, like all bridle ones, very plain to those who know them, and very puzzling to those who don't.

It was evidently a little-frequented road; and what with looking out for footmarks (now nearly obliterated by the recent rains) and speculating on what queer corners of the fields the gates would be in, Mr.Sponge found it necessary to reduce his pace to a very moderate trot.

Still he had made good way; and supposing they gave a quarter-of-an-hour's law, and he had not been deceived as to distance, he thought he should get to the meet about the time.

His horse, too, would be there, and perhaps Lord Scamperdale might give a little extra law on that account.

He then began speculating on what sort of a man his lordship was, and the probable nature of his reception.
He began to wish that Jawleyford had accompanied him, to introduce him.