Mr. Hankes would like to have said something complimentary, something flattering, but it did not exactly occur to him how he was to do it. To have exalted her heroism would be like a confession of his own poltroonery; to have seen any surprising evidence of boldness in her daring might possibly reflect upon her delicacy. He felt--none could have felt more thoroughly--that she was very courageous and very full of energy; but, somehow, these were humble aid to propagate that notion,--I had almost said that fallacy. “Only hear me out,” said she, as he tried to interrupt “I began my duties in the most sanguine of all moods. Heaven knows not what dreams I had of a land of abundance and content. Well, I have seen the abundance,--the wealth has really poured in; every one is richer, better fed, clothed, housed, and cared for, and almost in an equal ratio are they grown more covetous, grasping, envious, and malevolent--You won't let me finish,” cried she, as he showed an increasing impatience. “Well, perhaps, as we stroll along the cliffs to-morrow, you will be more disposed to listen; that is, if I have not already terrified you from accepting the companionship.” “Oh, no! by no means; but how are we to go,--do we drive?” “Drive! why, my dear Mr. Hankes, it is only a Kerry pony has either legs or head for the path we must follow. Cast your eye along this coast-line; Jagged and fanciful as it looks, it conveys no notion of its rugged surface of rock, and its wild and darksome precipices. Take my word for it, you have as much to learn of the scenery as of the temperament of the land.” “But I'd like to go,” repeated he, his accent being marvellously little in accordance with the sentiment. “Nothing easier, sir. I'll give orders to have a pony--a most reliable pony--ready for you here to-morrow evening, when I shall expect you at tea.” Mr. Hankes bowed his grateful acknowledgments. “I suspect, sir,” said she, playfully, “that I have guessed your reason for this journey.” “My reason, my dear Miss Kellett,” said he, in confusion,--“my reason is simply the pleasure and honor of _your_ company, and the opportunity of visiting an interesting scene with--with--with--” “No matter for the compliment; but I began really to imagine that you wished to learn my secret of bargaining with the people; that you wanted to witness one of these contracts you have heard so much of. Well, sir, you shall have it: our sole secret is, we trust each other.” CHAPTER XV. A BRIDLE-PATH