"Yes, but he is not one of us. He is but a soldier of fortune, and I like not that you should have to do with such an one. 'Twas vastly unseemly that you and he should be trapesing the country alone together, and I only hope no harm comes o't."
"And 'tis vastly impertinent of you, Ralph Trevellyan, to suppose that I cannot guard my honour and my own good name," she broke out hotly; for the suggestion in his words startled her, and stung her to the quick. "How dare you speak thus? Upon my word, Ralph, you may be an old friend, but, certes, you presume on the fact."
"Good Heavens! Barbara. What is the matter? I only suggested——"
"Then do not do so again. Captain Protheroe is a most honourable gentleman. 'Tis base of you to distrust him."
"Well! Don't be angry, Barbara," he pleaded quickly. "You know in Rupert's absence——"
"You put yourself in Rupert's place, eh? It suits you ill. Rupert hath both greater knowledge of me, and greater trust in me than thou hast, it would appear."
"Now, Barbara, dear—— Damnation!"
He dropped her hand and turned aside angrily, for a rustling of leaves and crackling of twigs announced the return of the third member of the party.
Barbara greeted him brightly; she was relieved at his return.
"Whither have you wandered, sir? You have been absent for hours."