I was taking a quiet ride on the moor with a friend, when my
horse, an old hunter, bolted with me, and has carried me here over
every obstacle, in spite of my wishes.'

'It is a good horse, but a good rider too,' said the old gentleman.
'Very few ladies would have taken that last leap. Let me introduce the
master of the hounds to you.'

The introduction took place, and, in spite of my protestations, the
brush was presented, and then, one by one, other riders came upon the
scene. It was a great relief to me when, turning my horse round, I
came face to face with Kenneth.

'Goody Two-Shoes! What on earth are you doing here? Was it you, then,
that took the lead so? We couldn't imagine what lady it was! I think
I must be dreaming.' And Kenneth really looked as if he could not
believe his eyes.

I explained it all hastily, adding, 'Do ride back with me away from all
these people to meet Miss Rayner. She will be anxious about me.'

But Kenneth only shook his head with mock solemnity. 'Oh! Goody,
Goody, I'm afraid you are a sad humbug! You won't make everybody
believe that patched-up story. You didn't bargain for meeting me here.
No wonder you don't want to come back to us just yet! I must write and
tell the girls you are enjoying yourself in the hunting-field. Do you
know that it is one of the governor's fads that girls are out of place
in a hunt? Nell has always been refused permission to come with me.
It will be amusing when this gets to the governor's ears! Coming off
by yourself on the sly, and getting the brush!'

And Kenneth gave a delighted chuckle at the end of his speech.

I rode straight away from him without a word, feeling ready to cry with
vexation. Then, to my great delight, Miss Rayner rode up. Her eyes
were twinkling with suppressed mirth.

'My dear girl, I am afraid Rawdon has given you a fright. I watched
you over the gate and hedge; you took them well. I almost wished to be
in your place, though my hunting days are over. I am proud of Rawdon!'

'I want to get away, Miss Rayner,' I said imploringly.

She looked at me, and was about to speak, when a gentleman rode up to
her. 'Miss Rayner, I haven't seen you for years. I am glad to meet
you in the field again.'

'Like this young lady who is staying with me, I have come into it
accidentally. We were out riding, when her horse bolted with her, and
I have only just come upon the scene. I have given up hunting for many
years n