It would be more sociable, perhaps, if we had some general conversation on the road; it would prevent her being alarmed.

I might even be of some use to YOU.

If we are overtaken by her husband on the road, for instance, I should certainly claim the right to have the first shot at you.

Boy!" he called to the hostler, "just sponge out Pancho's mouth, will you, to be ready when the buggy goes ?" And, loosening his grip of Van Loo's wrist, he turned away as the other quickly entered the hotel.
But Mr.Van Loo did not immediately seek Mrs.Barker.He had already some experience of that lady's nerves and irascibility on the drive, and had begun to see his error in taking so dangerous an impediment to his flight from the country.

And another idea had come to him.