And, within those walls, was the girl he loved! He set his teeth and strode on, resentful of every yard that took him from her instead of to her.
A signpost directed him to Fleckfield, and presently he came to the village and to the little inn in the middle of the single street.

It was a rustic looking place, with the usual bench and table outside it; and on the former was seated a young fellow in a knicker-bocker suit.

He was writing busily on a pad which rested on his knee, and he looked up with an absent, far-away expression in his eyes as Derrick strode in upon his solitude.
"Good afternoon," he said, pleasantly, when he had come down from the clouds; for it was Reggie Rex, busy on the outline of his novel.
Derrick returned the salutation and sank on to the bench beside him; and Reggie, after a comprehensive glance, and one of distinct approval, said: "You look hot, sir.

Have a drink.

I can recommend the local ale.