Thomas was a fine-looking fellow, notwithstanding his preposterous hair and beard; but I felt sure there could be no understanding between the man and his mistress.
When Thomas and Dorothy had mounted, she timidly ventured to say:-- "We are sorry, Cousin Malcolm, that you cannot ride with us." She did not give me an opportunity to change my mind, but struck Dolcy a sharp blow with her whip that sent the spirited mare galloping toward the dove-cote, and Thomas quickly followed at a respectful distance.

From the dove-cote Dorothy took the path down the Wye toward Rowsley.

I, of course, connected her strange conduct with John.

When a young woman who is well balanced physically, mentally, and morally acts in a strange, unusual manner, you may depend on it there is a man somewhere behind her motive.
I knew that John was in London.

Only the night before I had received word from Rutland Castle that he had not returned, and that he was not expected home for many days.
So I concluded that John could not be behind my fair cousin's motive.