"Hardly ever. We lived at Hastings for a while, in rooms under the cliff. I used to like the sea and the fishing-boats, and the people. But the house—! It was detestable. One long squabble with the woman, who was always cheating us."
"Yes, they are beasts. I had a season at Tunbridge Wells with the squire. It made me quarrelsome. Are you fond of the country?"
"I love it. I love finding the birds in their nests and watching everything. There is so much to watch. But then—the winter——!"
"The dull days. That is why we hunt and shoot and play cards, and why some of us drink too much. Can you ride?"
"A very little."
"I should like to teach you to ride."
"Should you! But I have no horse."
"I think of buying a quiet nag. I could come over and give you lessons. I know you could ride like a witch."
Her eyes looked up at him.
"How do you know that?"