"That will be my business."
"But it may be dangerous for you."
"Confound it, who cares! You've got to trust me, Nance, and by Heaven, I'll not fail you."
Her face and eyes warmed to him. His strength and confidence were giving her comfort.
"What strange creatures we are! A few minutes ago, I almost hated you, because you forced things on me; but now I feel that I must have your help."
"That is what I came to offer you. I have nothing to complain of."
They had been following the lane back to Stonehanger, when Nance, who seemed more restlessly alert than Jasper, saw a man on horseback appear between the furze-clad banks. He was a hundred yards away, but Nance knew him for De Rothan. She touched Jasper's arm.
"Look!"
"De Rothan?"
Her eyes met his with a new meaning. She was putting her trust in him, waiting to be guided by what he would say and do.