The sound was near me, too, it seemed to come from the other side of the fence which was just before me.
With beating heart I went stealthily forward and looked over the hedge into the other field.
In the dim light I saw four figures.
But there was no struggling. They seemed to have only just met, and as I looked I heard a voice that set my every nerve quivering.
"Wilfred," said the voice, which I knew was Ruth's, "how came you here?"
"I came to see you, Ruth," said Wilfred in low, subdued tones.
"But why did you not go to the house? I have been home all day, and my doors are never closed to any one bearing your name."
"I have met you here because I want to see you alone, and because I have some strange things to tell you."
"Well, speak on," she said, haughtily; "here, Clara, come and stand by my side."
"No," said Wilfred, hoarsely, "I want no servants near; I must speak to you alone, here, now. Jake, take this jade a few yards away and stay there."