She was a Canadian, and could skate well.

Jane, the first to follow her, was anxious as to the strength of the ice; but when reassured, she acquitted herself admirably, for she was proficient in outdoor exercises, and had the satisfaction of laughing in the field at those who laughed at her in the study.

Agatha, contrary to her custom, gave way to her companions, and her boots were the last upon which Smilash operated.
"How d'you do, Miss Wylie ?" he said, dropping the Smilash manner now that the rest were out of earshot.
"I am very well, thank you," said Agatha, shy and constrained.

This phase of her being new to him, he paused with her heel in his hand and looked up at her curiously.

She collected herself, returned his gaze steadily, and said: "How did Miss Wilson send you word to come?
She only knew of our party at half-past nine last night." "Miss Wilson did not send for me." "But you have just told Miss Ward that she did." "Yes.