'No,' said Rollo carelessly, 'I never undertake more than I can manage. Here is a good place for a run.'
They had come into the long level lane which led to Morton Hollow; and giving their horses the rein they swept through the October air in a flight which scorned the ground. When the banks of the lane began to grow higher and to close in upon the narrowing roadway, which also became crooked and irregular, they drew bridle again and returned to the earth.
'Don't you feel set straight now?' said Rollo.
'Thank you—no.'
'I am afraid you will give me some work to do, yet,' said he audaciously, and putting his hand out upon Wych Hazel's. 'Do not carry quite so loose a rein. Jeannie is sure, I believe, and you are fearless; but you should always let her know you are there.'
'Mr. Rollo—' said the girl hastily. Then she stopped.
'What?' said Rollo innocently, riding close alongside and looking her hard in the face. 'I am here.'
'Nothing.'
Then he changed his tone and said gently, 'What was it, Miss
Hazel?'
'Something better unsaid.'