Fitzpiers by a sort of divination jumped to the idea that the figure was Grace's; her nearer approach made the guess a certainty.
Yes, she was looking for something; and she came round by the prostrate trees that would have been invisible but for the white nakedness which enabled her to avoid them easily.

Thus she approached the heap of ashes, and acting upon what was suggested by a still shining ember or two, she took a stick and stirred the heap, which thereupon burst into a flame.

On looking around by the light thus obtained she for the first time saw the illumined face of Fitzpiers, precisely in the spot where she had left him.
Grace gave a start and a scream: the place had been associated with him in her thoughts, but she had not expected to find him there still.
Fitzpiers lost not a moment in rising and going to her side.
"I frightened you dreadfully, I know," he said.

"I ought to have spoken; but I did not at first expect it to be you.

I have been sitting here ever since." He was actually supporting her with his arm, as though under the impression that she was quite overcome, and in danger of falling.