The horses
had slackened their pace. The noise was less loud.
"You said we were going to the Fleet, but we're not. Where are you
taking me?"
"Don't trouble about such a trifle, darling little one," he cried gaily.
"Aren't you with me? What more do you want? Come, kiss me. Let us forget
everything but our two selves."
He would have embraced her but she repulsed him angrily.
"No. If you've altered your mind--if we're not to be married tell me so,
and I'll leave you to yourself," she cried agitatedly.
"Leave me? And d'you think I'll let you go when you're looking handsomer
than ever? Faith, what d'you take me for? You dear fluttering little
Venus. Why, you're trembling? But hang me, it must be with joy as I am."
Both his arms were round her. She struggled to free herself; pushed his
face away and panting, strove to reach the window, but he was strong and
prevented her.
"I'll go no further with you," she cried. "Set me down at once or I'll
scream for help."
"You pretty little fool. Much help you'll get here. Oh, you shall look
if you want to, but your wings must be clipped first."
He gripped both her wrists and held them fast. Her frightened eyes
glanced through the window. She heard a confused thud of hoofs, now and
again the deep bellowing of cattle, in the distance dogs barking,
drivers yelling. She could see horned heads moving up and down.
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