We could not stand in the road and freeze, so I got the blankets and robes from the coach and made riding pads for Dorothy and Madge.

These we strapped upon the broad backs of the coach horses, and then assisted the ladies to mount.

I walked by the side of Madge, and John performed the same agreeable duty for Dorothy.

Dawson went ahead of us, riding my horse and leading John's; and thus we travelled to Rowsley, half dead and nearly frozen, over the longest three miles in the kingdom.
John left us before entering the village, and took the road to Rutland, intending to stop for the night at a cottage two miles distant, upon his father's estates.

I was to follow Sir John when the ladies were safely lodged at The Peacock.
It was agreed between us that nothing should be said concerning the presence of any man save Dawson and myself in our party.
When John left us, I rode to The Peacock with Dorothy and Madge, and while I was bidding them good-by my violent cousin, Sir George, entered the inn.
Dorothy ran to her father and briefly related the adventures of the night, dwelling with undeserved emphasis upon the help I had rendered.