"I am afraid you must think I was not coming back," said Wilton, offering his hand to help her down.
"I saw you were well occupied," she said, touching it lightly as she descended.
"By Jove! you are shivering with cold—and no wonder, without a cloak or plaid! Wait for a moment and I will bring you mine from our carriage."
"Would you also be so kind as to bring my bonnet and a small travelling bag? I should have gone for them myself, only I could hardly stand."
But Wilton was gone, and returned quickly. "There are but three other ladies," he said, assisting to wrap his plaid around her, "and they are going up to a small town or village about two miles off, to rest at the inn; and when they are refreshed, intend posting on to their destination, which is somewhere in this district. Would you like to go with them, or wait at a little station close to this, where a fresh train will be sent as soon as they can clear the line?"
"Oh, I will go to the station. I am anxious to get on as soon as possible."
"And so am I. I shall, therefore, remain there also, and shall be most happy to be of any use to you."
"Thank you. Can I walk to this station at once?"
"Certainly, if you will take my arm."