In truth, Hurst had not been expecting anyone to creep up behind them. It was hardly the wisest thing to do with loaded guns and with the dogs tense and excitable. He jumped, of course, and cursed, turning on his heel. "Nathaniel!" He exclaimed, smiling slightly, "I should have known it was you. Not an ounce of your father's good sense." He added, teasingly, turning back to watch the beaters and groundsmen disappear over the crest of the hill. "Will you be joining us for dinner tonight?"

"Meet any eligable young ladies lately?" He asked, gesturing for his latest arrival to climb up towards the moors with him, the calls of the frightened grouse growing louder. "Your father tells me he has one or two in mind for you already."