"I know her ladyship would be only too pleased.
It's a long step to the Manor, and if you'll forgive my saying so, sir, you've a good deal on your shoulders just now." Tallente caught a glimpse of the bleak moorland and of the distant hills, wrapped in mist.

The idea of vigorous exercise, however, appealed to him.

He shook his head.
"I'd rather walk, thanks," he said.
"It's a matter of five miles, sir." Tallente smiled.

There was something in the fresh, cold air wonderfully alluring after the atmosphere of the room he had quitted.

He turned his coat collar up and strode down the avenue..