"Not to Aylingford, sir."
"But in that direction. The road does not only lead to the Abbey."
"Why, yes, sir; a coach started for the West early this afternoon," was the answer.
"In these days the traffic sets more this way," said Sir John. "What kind of passengers were they?"
"Two women; one closely veiled, but if her face were equal to her figure, to hide it was cheating mortals out of a pleasure. The other was a maid, a pert little baggage who ordered us about somewhat."
"Going to Exeter?"
"No, to Dorchester."
Sir John nodded, and the smile of satisfaction seemed permanent.
"You observe closely, landlord. I warrant you could describe the mistress's clothing for all you were so ordered about by the maid."
The landlord grinned, and proved his observation by a somewhat close description.