Of course, if the matter had not to do with Cocheforet, it was no affair of mine; but though it seemed unlikely that anything could bring him back so soon, he might still be at the bottom of this.

And, besides, I felt a natural curiosity.

When Clon at last improved his pace, and went on to the village, I took up his task.

I called to mind all the wood-lore I had ever learned, and scanned trodden mould and crushed leaves with eager eyes.

But in vain.