y solitudes, 'there is no human help. I
should have to choose between carrying you back to Boot or on to
Wastdale.'

'My strength is not likely to fail sooner than yours,' was the laughing
reply.

'I have chicken sandwiches, and wine that maketh glad the heart of man.
Tell me when hunger overcomes you. I should think we had better make
our halt at Burmoor Tarn.'

That, indeed, proved to be the convenient resting-place. A wild spot, a
hollow amid the rolling expanse of moorland, its little lake of black
water glistening under the midday sun. And here stood a shepherd's
cottage, the only habitation they had seen since leaving Boot. Somewhat
uncertain about the course to be henceforth followed, they made inquiry
at this cottage, and a woman who appeared to be quite alone gave them
the needful direction. Thus at ease in mind they crossed the bridge at
the foot of the tarn, and just beyond it found a spot suitable for
repose. Everard brought forth his sandwiches and his flask of wine,
moreover a wine-glass, which was for Rhoda's use. They ate and drank
festively.

'Now this is just what I have enjoyed in imagination for a year or
more,' said Barfoot, when the luncheon was over, and he lay propped
upon his elbow, gazing at Rhoda's fine eyes and her sun-warmed cheeks.
'An ideal realized, for once in one's life. A perfect moment.'

'Don't you like the scent of burning peat from that cottage?'

'Yes. I like everything about us, in heaven and earth, and most of all
I like your companionship, Rhoda.'

She could not resent this first use of her Christian name; it was so
natural, so inevitable; yet she moved her head as if with a slight
annoyance.

'Is mine as agreeable to you?' he added, stroking the back of her hand
with a spray of heather. 'Or do you just tolerate me out of
good-nature?'

'I have liked your companionship all the way from Seascale. Don't
disturb my enjoyment of it for the rest of the way.'

'That would be a misfortune indeed. The whole day shall be perfect. Not
a note of discord. But I must have liberty to say what comes into my
mind, and when you don't choose to answer I shall respect your silence.'

'Wouldn't you like to smoke a cigar before we start again?'

'Yes. But I like still better not to. The scent of peat is pleasanter
to you than that of tobacco.'

'Oblige me by lighting the cigar.'

'If you command--' He did her bidding. 'The whole day shall be perfect.
A delightful dinner at the in