Julia came down only for a few minutes before the usual hour for retiring for the night had arrived, and Headland had no opportunity of speaking to her.
Chapter Thirty Seven.
No News of the Cutter.
When Sir Ralph entered the breakfast-room next morning, Headland could not help remarking the formal politeness with which he greeted him.
“Has nothing been seen of my son Harry?” he asked. “Perhaps, Captain Headland, you would favour me by riding over to Hurlston to ascertain whether the cutter in which he embarked has returned.”
Headland said that he should be very happy to do as Sir Ralph wished. He looked towards Julia, doubting whether he might venture to ask her to ride in the same direction.
Sir Ralph seemed to divine his thoughts, for he immediately said—
“Julia, I wish to have some conversation with you during the morning; we will afterwards, if you please, take a canter round the park.”