But it was necessary to be certain of her having a trusty postillion.
He walked through the drench and scream of a burst cloud to the posting-office.

There, after some trouble, he obtained information directing him to the neighbouring mews.

He had thence to find his way to the neighbouring pot-house.
The report of the postillion was, on the whole, favourable.

The man understood horses--was middle-aged--no sot; he was also a man with an eye for weather, proverbially in the stables a cautious hand--slow 'Old Slow-and-sure,' he was called; by name, Joshua Abnett.
'Oh, Joshua Abnett ?' said the earl, and imprinted it on his memory, for the service it was to do during the night.
Slow-and-sure Joshua Abnett would conduct her safely, barring accidents.
For accidents we must all be prepared.

She was a heroine in an accident.
The earl recalled one and more: her calm face, brightened eyes, easy laughter.