Philip and Pierre slid down the rope after her, and they at once started across the country.
After three hours' walking, they reached the farm where Pierre had left the horses.

They left Claire a short distance away.

As Pierre had seen the horses put into the stables, he knew exactly where they were.

He had, on leaving them there, paid for a week's keep; saying that he might come for them in haste, and perhaps at night, and if so he would saddle and take them off without waking the farmer.
The horses whinnied with pleasure, when Philip spoke to them.

The saddles and bridles were found, hanging on a beam where Pierre had placed them; and in two or three minutes the horses were led out, ready to start.