Thus our strange party stole from Dover before the town was awake, Nell obeying the King's command which sent her back to London, and delighting that she could punish him for it by going in our company.

I rode behind the coach, bearing myself like a serving-man until we reached open country, when I quickened pace and stationed myself by the window.

Up to this time matters had gone well; if they spoke, it was of service given and kindness shown.

But as the day wore on and we came near Canterbury the devil began to busy himself.

Perhaps I showed some discouragement at the growing coldness of Barbara's manner, and my anxiety to warm her to greater cordiality acted as a spur on our companion.