IT was early morning when we set out on horseback for Jamestown.

I rode in front, with Mistress Percy upon a pillion behind me, and Diccon on the brown mare brought up the rear.

The negress and the mails I had sent by boat.
Now, a ride through the green wood with a noble horse beneath you, and around you the freshness of the morn, is pleasant enough.

Each twig had its row of diamonds, and the wet leaves that we pushed aside spilled gems upon us.

The horses set their hoofs daintily upon fern and moss and lush grass.