As they breakfasted, he explained by way of signs that they should go to a small town some three miles distant. He pointed it out to her. She indicated that she understood and they set off after they had eaten.

    It was a fine, crisp morning. The turf sprang beneath the tinker's feet. But they had only gone a little way when the girl stumbled and fell. The tinker knelt beside her. She was having difficulty breathing. Even getting to her feet seemed to exhaust her. She gripped his arm for support, but after another few steps, she fell again. This time he realised he would have to carry her. He put his arms under her knees and back and strained to lift her, but it was quite impossible.

    It was inexplicable, but it was clear that they would have to return...

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