Here was a man who had no need for the shallow cunning of little fox-like men.

This one would go open and bold on his way, and that which he could not take by his strength he would not have.

Had she not seen him in battle?
Had she not seen his eyes like polished steel points?
Deep down in her heart, the woman felt a thrill of triumph that such a man should stand so before her.

She must go quickly.
Young Matt climbed slowly up the hill again to his seat on the stump.

Here he watched until across the Hollow he saw the pony and his rider come out of the timber and move swiftly along the ridge; watched until they faded into a tiny spot, rounded the mountain and disappeared from sight.