"You should not be walking here, Mrs. Winthrop," he said as he came up; "it is too wet."
"It is wet; but I am going now. You have been at Miolans?"
"Yes. I saw my aunt. She told me you were out riding somewhere. I thought perhaps you might be here."
"Is that all she told you?"
"I think so. No; she did say that you were fond of autumn in the country. So am I. Wouldn't it be wise to stop at the old man's cottage, before remounting, and dry your shoes a little?"
"I never take cold."
"Perhaps we could find a pair in the village that you could wear."
"It is not necessary. I will ride rapidly; the exercise will be the best safeguard."
"Do you know why I have come back?" he said, abandoning the subject of the shoes.
"I do not," answered the lady. She looked very sad and weary.