“We can go no further this way,” said Mrs. Haldane.
“Oh yes, we can. I will assist you over the stones,” the vicar rejoined.
“They look very treacherous and slippery, and the water makes one nervous, running so fast.”
“Look, it is quite safe!” said the vicar; and Edith, peeping from the side of the boulder, saw him step quickly across the brook. “It is a pity you should miss the old Roman camp, when you are so near it.”
“If you will come back and assist me from this side, I will try them,” said Mrs. Haldane..
The vicar returned across the brook, and Edith saw the lady gather her dress and prepare to step on to the first stone.
“Now, you must be ready to reach me your hand in case I need it.”
“Oh, you will find it quite easy when you try. Don’t stop, but go right across without hesitation.”
Mrs. Haldane jumped fairly enough on to the first boulder, but, instead of allowing the forward impetus to carry her on, she tried to stop and steady herself on the narrow footing among the rushing water. She lost at once her balance and her courage, and turning to him with outstretched arms, she cried out, “Quick! quick! I shall fall!”
She threw herself back to the side as she spoke, and he caught her in his arms. Her arms were about his neck, her face close to his; he felt her breath upon his cheek. It was only for an instant, and as she tried to recover herself, their eyes met with a flash of self-consciousness. In the passionate excitement of that supreme moment he strained her to his breast, and pressed his lips to her in a long, violent kiss.