I wandered about the field and house, building and demolishing many an airy abode, until Styles came back. I had told him to get the job done at once, and not return without the saddle.
‘Can I trust you, Styles?’ I said abruptly.
‘I hope so, sir. If I may make so bold, I don’t think I was altogether to blame about that book—’
‘Of course not. I told you so. Never think of it again. Can you keep a secret?’
‘I can try, sir. You’ve been a good master to me, I’m sure, sir.’
‘That I mean to be still, if I can. Do you know the parish of Spurdene?’
‘I was born there, sir.’
‘Ah! that’s not so convenient. Do you know the rectory?’
‘Every stone of it, I may say, sir.’
‘And do they know you?’