47561    He was on the moor path, about a quarter of a mile off, and a lady was by his side who could only be Miss Stapleton.

47562    It was clear that there was already an understanding between them and that they had met by appointment.

47563    They were walking slowly along in deep conversation, and I saw her making quick little movements of her hands as if she were very earnest in what she was saying, while he listened intently, and once or twice shook his head in strong dissent.

47564    I stood among the rocks watching them, very much puzzled as to what I should do next.

47565    To follow them and break into their intimate conversation seemed to be an outrage, and yet my clear duty was never for an instant to let him out of my sight.

47566    To act the spy upon a friend was a hateful task.

47567    Still, I could see no better course than to observe him from the hill, and to clear my conscience by confessing to him afterwards what I had done.

47568    It is true that if any sudden danger had threatened him I was too far away to be of use, and yet I am sure that you will agree with me that the position was very difficult, and that there was nothing more which I could do.

47569    Our friend, Sir Henry, and the lady had halted on the path and were standing deeply absorbed in their conversation, when I was suddenly aware that I was not the only witness of their interview.

47570    A wisp of green floating in the air caught my eye, and another glance showed me that it was carried on a stick by a man who was moving among the broken ground.

47571    It was Stapleton with his butterfly-net.

47572    He was very much closer to the pair than I was, and he appeared to be moving in their direction.

47573    At this instant Sir Henry suddenly drew Miss Stapleton to his side.

47574    His arm was round her, but it seemed to me that she was straining away from him with her face averted.

47575    He stooped his head to hers, and she raised one hand as if in protest.