It was a bright spring morning, the air just cold enough to be
delightfully bracing; men were at work in the fields, orchards were full
of bloom and fragrance, forest trees leafing out, and springing grass and
flowers making the roadsides lovely.
Zoe's spirits rose with every mile she travelled, the perfume of flowers,
the songs of birds, and all the sweet sights and sounds of nature that
greeted eye, and ear, and every sense, filled her with joy. How could she,
so young and full of life and health, be unhappy in so beautiful a world?
So keen was her enjoyment that she rode farther than she had intended.
Time passed so quickly that, on looking at her watch, she was surprised to
find that she would hardly be able, even at a gallop, to reach Ion by the
breakfast hour.
She was a little disturbed at that, for everybody was expected to be
punctual at meals. Grandpa Dinsmore was particular about it, and she did
not wish to give Edward fresh cause for displeasure.
As she galloped swiftly up the avenue, she was surprised to see him pacing
the veranda to and fro, watch in hand, while his horse stood near ready
saddled and bridled.
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