Thereupon he swore wild oaths and rushed off and left her on the hillside alone.
When he was gone she went her own way, but not to Undershaugh. By deep lanes and field-paths familiar to her she took a long walk, and at the end of it found herself at Coldstone Farm, the abode of Mr. Timothy Waite. He was from home, and she asked for pen and paper that she might leave a note for him. Her communication was short, and when she had written it and sealed it with exceeding care, she set off again for home.
Anon Mr. Waite opened it and was much disappointed at the length. But Cora's matter atoned for this shortcoming.
"Have settled with N.B. Yours, C."
And elsewhere, while she retraced her way from Coldstone, the discarded lover came to a wild conclusion with himself. He steadied his steps, stood at the Moor edge in two minds, then turned and set off for Hawk House.
This blow had staggered him, had even awakened him from the fatuous dream in which he passed his days. He had a vague idea that Humphrey might be glad to know of this broken engagement; that it might even put his uncle into a more amiable temper. Ned had been advised by Rupert to see Mr. Baskerville; but had declined to do so until the present time.
At Hawk House Mrs. Hacker met him and made no effort to hide astonishment.
"Wonders never cease, I'm sure! You, of all men! Master be on the Moor, riding somewheres, but if you want him, you can wait for him. He always comes in at dusk. How's your young woman?"
The man was in no mood for talk with Susan and cut her short.
"I'll wait, then," he said. "I'll wait in the garden."