intend. I would strongly advise you to do so.' He spoke as if
rather perplexed as to the probable custom of the English peasantry
in such matters, and added, 'However, it is for you to decide. I
know nothing of the circumstances. As to getting to the ball, the
plan I have arranged is this. The direction to Lord Toneborough's
being the other way from my house, you must meet me at Three-Walks-
End--in Chillington Wood, two miles or more from here. You know the
place? Good. By meeting there we shall save five or six miles of
journey--a consideration, as it is a long way. Now, for the last
time: are you still firm in your wish for this particular treat and
no other? It is not too late to give it up. Cannot you think of
something else--something better--some useful household articles you
require?'

Margery's countenance, which before had been beaming with
expectation, lost its brightness: her lips became close, and her
voice broken. 'You have offered to take me, and now--'

'No, no, no,' he said, patting her cheek. 'We will not think of
anything else. You shall go.'



CHAPTER IV



But whether the Baron, in naming such a distant spot for the
rendezvous, was in hope she might fail him, and so relieve him after
all of his undertaking, cannot be said; though it might have been