We have already mentioned that since Dorothy's arrival in Preston, Charles had fallen desperately in love with her; but, owing to circumstances, they had been little together, and now they were compelled to part. However, they did not despair of an early meeting.
In attendance on the ladies were Father Norham and Newbiggin, both of whom were well mounted.
As the conductor of the party, Captain Douglas rode a little in advance—but the countess was not far behind him.
Almost instantly the party disappeared in the gloom, and then the earl listened intently for any sounds that might tell how they got on; but nothing to occasion alarm being heard, after waiting for a few minutes, he retired—though with a sad heart.
Meanwhile, the party proceeded in the order described, and in silence. If a word was exchanged by Charles Radclyffe, it reached no other ears but their own.
No interruption was offered as they rode down the narrow lane, and even a gate that led to a field skirting the river seemed left purposely open.
Here Captain Douglas rode alone to reconnoitre, but returned almost immediately to say that the way was clear.
During his brief absence, the countess cast a look back at the hill, and could just distinguish the dark outline of the town. Here and there, it could be seen from the reflection that a house was still burning.
As they advanced, a slight glimmer showed that the river was close at hand.
Before descending the bank, Captain Douglas took hold of the countess's bridle, and then led her horse cautiously into the water.